Cold Soda Recipe

Chill glass

Optional: Place a highball or tall glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes to get it very cold before serving.

Add about 1 cup of fresh ice to the chilled or room-temperature glass. Use less ice if you prefer less dilution or for a bottle/can pour.

Pour one 12 fl oz can or bottle of your chosen soda (Coke, Coke Zero, Diet Coke, Sprite, Pibb Xtra, or soda water) gently into the glass over the ice. Pour slowly down the side to reduce foaming.

If desired, squeeze a lemon or lime wedge over the top and drop it into the glass for a bright citrus note (especially good with Sprite or soda water).

Insert a straw if desired and serve immediately. For best flavor and carbonation, serve within a few minutes of pouring.

Chill cans/bottles and ice: Keep unopened cans or bottles chilled in a cooler with ice or in the refrigerator until service time.

If using a clear 1.5–2 L dispenser or pitcher for soda water or fountain‑style service, fill the container with cold soda (do not overfill) and add iced water only for soda water to retain fizz. For carbonated cola options, it is best to keep them in cans/bottles and refill glasses directly to preserve carbonation.

Provide a stack of clean glasses, a container of ice, tongs or an ice scoop, and optional lemon/lime wedges so guests can make their own perfect glass. Label each soda type clearly to avoid confusion.

For fastest service and minimal foam: tilt the glass at roughly 45 degrees and pour soda down the side. Top up straightening the glass to create a small head (about 1/2 inch) if desired.

Refill policy: replace open bottles/cans when finished and keep spares chilled. For soda water, replace water in the pitcher frequently (every 1–2 hours) to maintain carbonation and temperature.

After service, empty remaining sodas if flat and recycle bottles/cans. Wash glasses and pitcher/dispenser with warm soapy water and air‑dry.