Recipe: Sparkling Strawberry Cucumber Mocktail

Kelli Foster
Kelli FosterCulinary Producer at The Kitchn
I'm a recipe developer, food writer, stylist, and video producer (and The Kitchn's Dinner Therapist), with more than 10 years professional experience. Since graduating from The French Culinary Institute, I've authored 3 cookbooks: Buddha Bowls, Plant-Based Buddha Bowls, and The Probiotic Kitchen.
updated May 1, 2019
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Inspired by the British summertime classic, this tall, fizzy drink is meant for sipping on warm, lazy afternoons. We mixed up a non-boozy version that skips the classic Pimm’s, but brings together lots of lemony effervescence, cucumbers, and fresh strawberries. Here’s how to make this minimalist, booze-free drink

Start with Simple Syrup

Fresh berries and cucumber leave this drink with a subtle and delicate sweetness, but if you like your drinks on the sweeter side, treat this minimalist mocktail to a splash of simple syrup. For this recipe you’ll want to plan just a little bit ahead (an hour, max, will do), to make the syrup and allow enough time for it to cool.

Make the simple syrup: Heat the water in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until hot, but not boiling. Add an equal amount of sugar and stir until fully dissolved. Cool at room temperature. The simple syrup can be made up to two weeks in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

How to Mix This Drink

For each drink, gently muddle a couple small, ripe strawberries (stems removed and sliced) and a couple 1/2-inch slices of (seedless) cucumber in a tall glass. Top with ice and a splash of simple syrup to taste (optional). Top it off with lemon seltzer, and stir together. To serve, garnish with extra sliced strawberries and cucumbers.

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