Barley Free Cucumber-Basil Lemon Mint Soda
Fresh cucumber, bright lemon, and a double hit of basil and mint come together in a sparkling soda that tastes like a garden in a glass. Muddling the cucumber and herbs first is the secret — it coaxes out every drop of fragrant juice before the honey and lemon even enter the picture. The result is a layered, aromatic drink that feels genuinely sophisticated without requiring any special equipment beyond a shaker or mason jar. Every single ingredient here is naturally free of grain-based additives, so there's no label-scanning or second-guessing involved — just clean, whole-food components you can feel good about. Pouring the sparkling water slowly down the side of the glass keeps the fizz alive, so your first sip is just as lively as the last. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a sprig of herbs and it looks stunning enough to serve at a dinner party or a lazy weekend brunch.
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Learn more →Ingredients
2 servings
- ½ medium cucumber, thinly sliced (about ½ cup)
- 8 fresh basil leaves
- 8 fresh mint leaves
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1 ½ lemons)
- 1 ½ tbsp honey
- ¼ cup cold water
- 1 ½ cups plain sparkling water, chilled
- 1 cup ice cubes
For serving
- 2 thin lemon slices, for serving (optional)
- 2 small fresh basil or mint sprigs, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the cucumber slices, basil leaves, and mint leaves in a cocktail shaker or large mason jar. Muddle firmly until the cucumber releases its juice and the herbs are bruised and fragrant, about 20–25 presses.
- 2
Add the lemon juice, honey, and cold water to the shaker. Seal and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds, until the honey is fully dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
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