Diet Coke Recipe

Chill glass (optional)

If desired, place a highball or Collins glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes to lightly chill before serving.

Fill the glass about three-quarters full with fresh ice cubes (roughly 1 cup), leaving room for the soda and a small gap at the top to avoid overflow.

Open a cold 12 oz can or bottle of Diet Coke. Pour it gently into the glass down the side to preserve carbonation and reduce foaming.

Give the drink a very gentle stir (one slow swirl with a long spoon) if needed to settle the liquid. Avoid vigorous stirring to keep fizz.

If using, squeeze the lime wedge over the drink to release a few drops of juice, then drop the wedge into the glass for extra aroma and a hint of citrus.

Optionally, garnish with a lime wheel on the rim or thread a maraschino cherry on a cocktail pick and rest it across the glass.

Serve immediately with a straw or stirrer. Consume while cold to enjoy the best carbonation and flavor.

If you chilled the glass, remove it from the freezer just before preparing the drink to prevent condensation buildup.

Place the lime wheel on the rim or slide it onto the drink. For a cherry garnish, spear the maraschino cherry with the cocktail pick and rest it across the glass.