M. Valley Sparkling Water Recipe

Chill glass and ingredients

If possible, place the glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes or fill it with ice water while you gather ingredients so your drink stays bubbly longer.

Add ice

Fill the chilled glass with 3–4 ice cubes, leaving room for the sparkling water and garnishes.

Add optional flavor or sweetener

If using simple syrup or honey, add 1 teaspoon to the glass now. If using, gently bruise the mint leaves by clapping them between your palms or gently tapping with the back of a spoon to release oils, then add the mint and cucumber slices to the glass. Lightly stir once to incorporate the sweetener and aromatics.

Pour sparkling water

Slowly pour 1 cup of chilled sparkling water into the glass over the back of a spoon or down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation and prevent excessive foaming.

Finish with citrus

Squeeze the lemon or lime wedge over the drink to release a few drops of juice, then drop the wedge into the glass as a garnish.

Serve

Give the drink one gentle stir to combine flavors (avoid vigorous stirring to keep fizz). Serve immediately while cold and effervescent.