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Basil Cucumber Gin Cooler

A refreshing cocktail with fresh basil and cucumber, perfect for warm days.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 1 serving
Course: Cocktail, Drinks
Cuisine: American, Summer
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the cocktail
  • 4-6 leaves Fresh basil leaves Fragrant leaves with a peppery, slightly sweet smell.
  • 4-6 slices Thin cucumber slices English cucumber preferred; peel if using regular cucumbers.
  • 1 ounce Simple syrup Equal parts sugar and water, warmed until sugar dissolves.
  • 1 ounce Fresh lime juice Squeeze right before mixing for best flavor.
  • 2 ounces Good gin A botanical gin with light citrus notes.
  • 2-3 ounces Club soda or sparkling water Keep it very cold for added lift.
  • 1 pinch Optional pinch of salt Enhances the flavors of basil and cucumber.
  • Lots of ice Ice Fresh ice works; clear ice looks pretty.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Add 4 to 6 basil leaves and 4 to 6 thin cucumber slices to a shaker.
  2. Add a very small pinch of salt, 1 ounce simple syrup, and 1 ounce fresh lime juice.
  3. Gently press the basil and cucumber with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release the oils and juices.
  4. Ensure basil leaves still look fresh and do not pulverize.
Shake and Serve
  1. Add 2 ounces gin and a generous scoop of ice to the shaker.
  2. Seal and shake for 10 to 12 seconds until the shaker feels frosty.
  3. Strain into an ice-filled tall glass.
  4. Top with 2 to 3 ounces of club soda and give a quick stir.
  5. Garnish with a cucumber ribbon or a sprig of basil.

Notes

Chill all ingredients for better bubbles. Avoid over muddling to keep flavors bright. Adjust for sweetness as needed.