Club Soda Recipe

Prepare chilled carbonated water

Start with chilled carbonated water: refrigerate bottled or freshly carbonated water for at least 30 minutes prior to mixing. Using cold water preserves carbonation when you add small solids.

Dissolve mineral salts

In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the sodium bicarbonate (1 tsp) and the pinch of sodium chloride. If using potassium bicarbonate for added minerality, add that pinch as well. Stir briefly to mix the powders evenly.

Incorporate salts into water

Place the chilled carbonated water (4 cups) in a large pitcher. Add the combined salts slowly while gently stirring with a long spoon. Stir with slow, smooth strokes for 5–10 seconds—avoid vigorous stirring to minimize loss of carbonation. The salts will dissolve quickly in cold water.

Taste and adjust

Taste a small sip. The goal is a clean, slightly mineral finish. If you prefer more minerality, add a very small additional pinch of sodium bicarbonate or potassium bicarbonate (no more than an extra 1/8 tsp total) and stir gently again. If it tastes noticeably salty, dilute with 1/2 cup additional chilled carbonated water.

Hold before serving

Let the mixture sit in the refrigerator for 5–10 minutes to allow flavors to marry while retaining chill and carbonation.

Prepare glass: add ice cubes (optional) to a tall glass.

Pour club soda from the pitcher into the glass over ice, leaving room if you plan to add a garnish or mixer.

Finish: squeeze a lemon or lime wedge over the top if desired and drop it in. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint if using. Serve immediately while effervescence is strong.