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Cucumber Mint Mezcal Cooler

This refreshing cocktail combines the crispness of cucumber with vibrant mint and smoky mezcal, perfect for summer gatherings. The sea salt rim adds a delightful contrast that enhances every sip.

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Sea Salt Rim:
  • 2 tablespoons coarse sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest (finely grated)
  • For the Cocktail:
  • 4 ounces mezcal
  • 1 medium cucumber (about 8 ounces), peeled and chopped
  • 1 ounce fresh lime juice (about 1 large lime)
  • 1 ounce agave syrup (adjust based on sweetness preference)
  • 10 fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
  • 1 cup soda water (club soda or sparkling water)
  • Ice cubes
  • Lime wedges (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Start by preparing the sea salt rim. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of coarse sea salt with 1 teaspoon of finely grated lime zest. Mix well and set aside.
  2. Take a medium cucumber (about 8 ounces), peel it, and chop it into small pieces. Aim for about 1 cup of chopped cucumber to ensure a fresh taste in your cooler.
  3. Grab your cocktail shaker. Add the chopped cucumber, 10 fresh mint leaves, 1 ounce of fresh lime juice, and 1 ounce of agave syrup. Muddle these ingredients together for about 30 seconds until the cucumber is broken down, releasing its juices and mint aroma. Avoid over-muddling, which can lead to bitterness from the mint leaves.
  4. Fill the shaker with ice cubes, then pour in 4 ounces of mezcal. Shake well for about 15-20 seconds until the mixture is chilled. You’ll know it’s ready when the shaker feels cold to the touch.
  5. Now, it’s time to rim your glass. Take a chilled glass and run a lime wedge around the rim. Dip the rim into the sea salt mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
  6. Strain the chilled cocktail mixture into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice cubes. Aim for a fine mesh strainer to catch any cucumber pulp for a smoother texture.
  7. Top off your drink with 1 cup of soda water, gently stirring to combine. This adds a refreshing fizz to your cooler.
  8. To finish, garnish with extra mint leaves and a lime wedge. Serve immediately for the best experience, as the drink is most refreshing when freshly made.

Nutrition

Keywords: When muddling the cucumber and mint, be gentle to avoid bitterness. Chill your glasses in the freezer before serving for a colder drink.