Cucumber Lime Refresher Recipe

Prepare cucumber

Wash the cucumber. Reserve one thin ribbon (use a vegetable peeler) for garnish. Chop the remaining cucumber into roughly 1-inch pieces (about 1/2 of a medium English cucumber).

Muddle or blend

Place the chopped cucumber in a cocktail shaker or a small blender. Add the fresh lime juice and simple syrup. If using a shaker: muddle the cucumber firmly for 20–30 seconds until it releases juices. If using a blender: pulse 1–2 times to break down the cucumber, then pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into the shaker to remove solids.

Combine with water and ice

Add the cold water and about 1 cup of ice to the shaker with the strained cucumber-lime liquid. This dilutes and chills the base so the final cocktail is balanced.

Add rum and shake

Pour 1.5 oz white rum into the shaker with the cucumber-lime base. Secure the shaker lid and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until well chilled (if you used a blender and strained, shaking registers a brighter texture).

Prepare glass (optional)

If you like a rim, moisten the edge of a chilled highball or rocks glass with a lime wedge and dip into salt or sugar (about 1/2 tsp). Fill the glass with fresh ice.

Strain and top

Double-strain the contents of the shaker into the prepared glass over ice to remove any remaining solids. If you prefer a longer, lighter drink, top with 2 oz club soda and gently stir once to combine.

Garnish and serve

Thread the reserved cucumber ribbon onto a lime wheel or place it inside the glass. Add the mint sprigs if using. Serve immediately and enjoy the bright, cooling flavors.