Ginger Free Cucumber-Basil Lemon Mint Soda
This sparkling soda is the kind of refreshing drink that makes you feel like you're sitting on a shaded patio even when you're just standing in your kitchen. Muddled cucumber, fresh basil, and bright mint come together with real lemon juice and a touch of honey for a flavor that's floral, citrusy, and genuinely cooling. Many store-bought sodas and flavored sparkling waters sneak in ginger as a "natural flavor," so making your own from scratch is the cleanest way to get that sophisticated, herbaceous fizz without any surprises. The technique here is simple but effective — muddling the cucumber and herbs releases their oils and juice, and a short rest lets everything infuse before you strain it into the glass. Pouring the sparkling water slowly down the side of the glass keeps every sip perfectly bubbly. A lemon slice and a sprig of fresh herbs on top make it look like something you'd pay good money for at a fancy café.
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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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