Cocktails don’t have to mean sugary syrups and empty calories. With the right ingredients, your drink can be just as refreshing and nourishing. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, winding down after a long week, or simply enjoying the sunshine, this healthy cucumber mint cocktail is light, hydrating and easy to make.
Plus, it works just as well as a mocktail, so everyone can enjoy it, alcohol-free.
Why we love it:
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Low in added sugar
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Hydrating ingredients like cucumber and lemon
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Packed with fresh herbs that support digestion
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Can be made with or without alcohol
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Beautiful to serve and easy to customise
Ingredients (makes 2 servings):
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1 small cucumber, peeled and sliced
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Juice of 1 lemon (or lime)
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6–8 fresh mint leaves
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1 tsp honey or agave (optional)
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1½ cups sparkling water or soda water
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Ice cubes
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Optional: 50ml gin or vodka per serving
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Garnish: cucumber ribbons, lemon slice, mint sprig
Method:
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In a shaker or glass jug, muddle the cucumber slices, mint leaves, lemon juice and honey/agave until the cucumber releases its juice and the mint is fragrant.
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Add ice and pour in the sparkling water (and alcohol, if using). Stir or shake gently.
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Strain into two glasses filled with ice. Garnish with a ribbon of cucumber, a slice of lemon and a mint sprig for that “spa-day” feel.
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Sip slowly, relax — and feel good about it.
Healthy twist tips:
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Go alcohol-free: Simply skip the gin or vodka and enjoy as a refreshing mocktail.
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Use coconut water instead of soda water for extra electrolytes.
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Add chia seeds for a light energy boost and fibre.
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Swap honey for stevia or leave it out completely to keep it sugar-free.
The wellness behind the ingredients:
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Cucumber: Hydrating, cooling and good for the skin.
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Mint: Aids digestion and soothes the gut.
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Lemon: Packed with vitamin C and great for detox support.
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Sparkling water: Adds fizz without the sugar hit of soda.
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Optional alcohol: By choosing light spirits and balancing them with fresh ingredients, you’re keeping it lower in sugar and calories than most store-bought mixers.
For summer events or weekend wind-downs:
This cocktail works beautifully at a brunch, poolside hangout, or dinner party. Want to make a jug for a group? Just multiply the ingredients, stir in a large glass pitcher, and serve chilled with lots of ice.
Wellness isn’t about restriction — it’s about balance. With a few tweaks, you can still enjoy delicious drinks while being kind to your body. Cheers to that!
Note: This recipe is intended for adults. If including alcohol, drink responsibly. For individuals with health conditions or those who are pregnant, consult your doctor before consuming alcohol.