Paleo Cucumber-Basil Lemon Mint Soda
This garden-fresh sparkling drink is the kind of thing that makes you feel like you're sipping something from a fancy spa — except you made it yourself in about ten minutes. Muddling cucumber with fresh basil and mint unlocks a surprisingly complex, aromatic base that pairs beautifully with bright lemon juice and a touch of honey for natural sweetness. Every ingredient here is clean and whole-food, with honey standing in for refined sugar so the sweetness actually fits a grain-free, processed-food-free lifestyle without any compromise on flavor. Store-bought sodas and flavored sparkling waters are notorious for sneaking in cane sugar, natural flavors, or other additives that can derail careful eating — this one gives you full control over exactly what goes in the glass. The technique of straining the muddled solids and pouring the sparkling water slowly down the side of the glass keeps everything crisp and beautifully carbonated right up until the first sip. It's refreshing enough to serve at a summer gathering but simple enough to throw together on a Tuesday afternoon when you just want something that feels a little special.
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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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