Usually, when I think of cucumbers I think of them as an addition to salads or dips, or maybe as part of a crudité platter. Make your simple syrup 1-2 days in advance… or do what I do and make a big batch so you’ve always got some in the fridge. Let it hang out in the fridge, and make a lot of it, depending on how many friends are joining you.

Spiked lemonade: Spike it by the glass! Add ¼ cup vodka or 3 tablespoons gin to 1 cup cucumber lemonade. Serving this cucumber lemonade for a party or entertaining guests? It’s nice to add a few garnishes to the glass to make it look festive. Here’s what we like to do: Freshly muddled cucumber, vermouth and vodka create a refreshing botanical cucumber martini. Hints of lime add contrast and complexity to this summertime sipper. Green, refreshing, and delicious. Jump to: It’s super light and oh-so refreshing on a hot summer day. It’s a slightly healthier option than sodas or juices since it is only lightly sweetened and is mostly cucumber and water.Sweet vs. dry vermouth: Dry vermouth is more bitter and less sugary than sweet vermouth. We opted for dry vermouth in this cucumber martini, and added a bit of simple syrup for balance.

Cucumber is great in salads and sauces…but an even better use for this green veggie, in our opinion? In drinks! Here’s one that’s absolutely perfect for summer: Cucumber Lemonade! The vegetable adds a cooling, vegetal finish to any drink that’s reminiscent of spa water. Combine that with the zing of the lemon, and it’s the ideal drink for sipping on the patio for a summer barbecue. It’s easy to make: here’s how it’s done! Ingredients for cucumber lemonade Not overpowering: We've always found martinis to be a bit overpowering and one-note. This recipe is neither, with cucumber, lime, and vermouth cutting through the intense vodka flavor. Vodka: Here's a little secret: all vodka is basically the same. No, really. So don't feel the need to pay up for a premium brand. That Kirkland stuff will be just fine, especially for a mixed drink like this cucumber martini.

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SPECIFICATIONS: Allergen Free, Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Kosher, No Artificial Sweeteners, & Non-GMO In addition to the tools above, you’re going to need some ingredients to make this recipe, too! Chances are, you might already have some of them in your fridge or pantry. Scroll down to the recipe card for the full measurements and instructions. Simple syrup: Using a liquid sweetener makes dissolving the sugar in your cucumber drink easier. Make your own simple syrup with an equal portion of water and sugar, then heat on the stove until it dissolves. You can also use a little bit of agave syrup or any other liquid sweetener you prefer. This will keep in your fridge for up to three weeks, but I suggest using in the first week or so when it is freshest. It’s so easy to make that “fresh” is always just a short time away. Limes: I prefer the flavor of freshly squeezed lime with the cucumber but lemons work too. One thing is certain, for the most delicious cucumber drink, you must use fresh lime or lemon juice.