Fresh Cucumber Lemonade

Fresh Cucumber Lemonade

This recipe aims for a refreshing and balanced flavor. You can adjust the sweetness and tartness to your liking.

Yields: Approximately 4-6 servings (about 6-8 cups) Prep time: 15 minutes Chill time: At least 30 minutes (or longer for best flavor)

Ingredients:

• Cucumbers:
  • 2 large English cucumbers (or 3-4 regular cucumbers), peeled if desired (some prefer the peel for color and nutrients, but it can make it slightly bitter for some)
• Lemons:
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 6-8 medium lemons)
  • Lemon slices for garnish (optional)
• Sweetener (adjust to your preference):
  • 1/2 to 3/4 cup granulated sugar, honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute (start with 1/2 cup and add more if needed)
• Water:
  • 4-5 cups cold filtered water
• Fresh Mint:
  • A small handful of fresh mint leaves (about 1/4 cup), plus more for garnish (optional)
• Ice:
  • For serving

Equipment:

• Blender
• Fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth
• Large pitcher or drink dispenser
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Juicer (for lemons)
• Cutting board and knife

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
   • Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. If using regular cucumbers, you can peel them if the skin is thick or waxy, or leave it on for extra nutrients and a slightly greener color.
   • Cut the cucumbers into rough chunks that will fit in your blender.
2. Blend Cucumbers and Mint:
   • Place the cucumber chunks and fresh mint leaves in your blender.
   • Add 1 cup of the cold water to help with blending.
   • Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth and liquified. This may take 1-2 minutes.
3. Strain the Cucumber Mixture:
   • Place a fine-mesh sieve over a large bowl or directly over your pitcher. If you want a perfectly clear lemonade, line the sieve with cheesecloth.
   • Pour the blended cucumber and mint mixture into the sieve.
   • Use a spoon or spatula to press down on the solids, extracting as much liquid as possible. Discard the pulp.
4. Make the Simple Syrup (if using granulated sugar):
   • In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of water with your chosen amount of granulated sugar (e.g., 1/2 to 3/4 cup).
   • Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved. Do not boil. This creates a simple syrup that blends easily into cold liquids. Let it cool slightly.
   • If using honey, maple syrup, or a liquid sugar substitute, you can skip this step and add it directly in step 5.
5. Combine All Ingredients:
   • To the strained cucumber juice in your pitcher, add the freshly squeezed lemon juice, the simple syrup (or other sweetener), and the remaining cold water (start with 3 cups and add more to reach your desired consistency and dilution).
   • Stir well to combine all ingredients.
6. Taste and Adjust:
   • Taste the lemonade and adjust the sweetness and tartness as needed.
     • Too sweet? Add more lemon juice or a splash more water.
     • Not sweet enough? Add a little more simple syrup or sweetener.
     • Too strong/concentrated? Add more cold water.
7. Chill and Serve:
   • Refrigerate the cucumber lemonade for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and for it to get thoroughly chilled. The longer it chills, the better it will taste.
   • Serve over ice, garnished with fresh cucumber slices, lemon slices, and a sprig of fresh mint.

Tips and Variations:

• Sparkling Cucumber Lemonade: For a fizzy version, use less water in the initial mixing (perhaps 2-3 cups) and top off individual glasses with sparkling water or club soda just before serving.
• Ginger Kick: Add a 1-inch piece of fresh ginger to the blender with the cucumbers and mint for a zesty flavor.
• Herbaceous Twist: Experiment with other herbs like basil or rosemary, adding a few sprigs to the blender with the cucumbers.
• Muddle Ingredients: For a stronger mint flavor, you can muddle some mint leaves directly in the pitcher before adding the liquid ingredients.
• Adjust Sweetness: This recipe provides a range for sweetness. Start with less and add more to your preference. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out.
• Storage: Store the cucumber lemonade in a sealed pitcher or container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavor may mellow slightly over time.

Enjoy your refreshing Fresh Cucumber Lemonade!