Turkey Free Cucumber Mint Sparkling Cooler
This sparkling cooler is the kind of drink that looks like it came from a fancy brunch spot but comes together with nothing more than fresh produce, maple syrup, and a blender. The cucumber base is silky-smooth after a quick blend and strain, and the homemade mint simple syrup adds a floral, cooling sweetness that store-bought syrups just can't match. A generous squeeze of fresh lime ties everything together with a bright, citrusy edge before the sparkling water brings the whole thing to life. Every single ingredient here is naturally free of any poultry product — no hidden broths, no meat-based additives, just clean, plant-based refreshment from start to finish. The technique of steeping fresh mint leaves directly in warm maple syrup is a small step that makes a huge difference in depth of flavor. It's the perfect pitcher drink for a warm afternoon, a backyard gathering, or honestly just a Tuesday when you want something that feels a little special.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the mint simple syrup
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup water
- ½ cup fresh mint leaves, loosely packed, plus more for garnish
For the cucumber base
- 1 medium english cucumber (about 12 oz), peeled and roughly chopped
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)
- 1 cup cold water
To finish
- 2 cups sparkling water, chilled
For serving
- ice cubes, for serving
- lime slices, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the maple syrup and 1/4 cup water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the syrup dissolves, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat, add the mint leaves, and stir to submerge. Let steep for 20 minutes, then strain through a fine-mesh strainer into a small bowl, pressing the leaves to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the spent mint. Let the syrup cool to room temperature.
- 2
Add the chopped cucumber and 1 cup cold water to a blender. Blend on high until completely smooth, about 30 seconds. Pour through the fine-mesh strainer into a pitcher, pressing the solids with the back of a spoon to extract all the liquid. Discard the solids.
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