Cool Cucumber Mint Cooler Recipe – Easy Summer Drink

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Cool Cucumber Mint Cooler Recipe – Easy Summer Drink

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a refreshing drink to beat the Indian summer heat. This cool cucumber mint cooler is my go-to – it’s unbelievably easy to make, tastes incredible, and feels so good on a hot day. I first whipped this up during a particularly scorching Delhi summer, and it’s been a family favourite ever since! Let’s get right into it, shall we?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another cooler; it’s a little slice of summer bliss. It’s incredibly hydrating, thanks to the cucumber and club soda. The mint adds a lovely freshness, and the black salt gives it that zing that takes it to the next level. Plus, it comes together in under 10 minutes – perfect when guests pop over or you just need a quick pick-me-up.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this magic happen:

• 1 medium cucumber
• 10-12 mint leaves
• 2 tsp granulated sugar (about 8g)
• ¼ tsp black salt (kala namak) – about 1.5g
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (about 30ml)
• Ice, as needed
• Club soda, to top
• Optional: Honey, sugar, or sugar-free sweetener to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! Using a good quality cucumber is key – look for one that feels firm and heavy for its size.

Now, about that black salt, or kala namak. This isn’t your regular table salt! It has a distinctive sulfurous aroma and a slightly tangy flavour that really elevates this drink. It’s a staple in Indian cuisine, especially in chaats and drinks like this one. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores.

And mint? Oh, the mint! There are so many varieties. I love using pudina (Indian mint) for its strong flavour, but spearmint or even peppermint work beautifully too. My grandmother always used a mix of different mints from her garden, and it always tasted extra special.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make this cooler!

1. First, peel and chop your cucumber. I like to reserve a few thin slices with the peel for garnish – they look so pretty!
2. Grab two tall glasses. Divide the chopped cucumber and mint leaves equally between them.
3. Add the sugar and black salt to each glass. Now, this is the fun part – gently muddle everything together. You want to release all those lovely juices from the cucumber and mint. Don’t go too crazy, though, just a good press and twist will do.
4. Squeeze in the lemon juice into both glasses and give it a good stir.
5. Fill those glasses to the brim with ice cubes. The more ice, the better, especially if it’s a really hot day!
6. Top each glass with chilled club soda and gently mix.
7. Garnish with those reserved cucumber slices and a sprig of fresh mint. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Chill everything! Chilled cucumber, club soda, and glasses make a world of difference.
• Don’t over-muddle. You want to release the flavours, not pulverize the ingredients.
• Taste as you go. Adjust the sugar and lemon juice to your liking.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Adaptation: This recipe is naturally vegan, so you’re all set!
• Sugar-Free Adaptation: My friend, Priya, who’s watching her sugar intake, swears by using a few drops of stevia or a teaspoon of erythritol instead of sugar. It works perfectly!
• Spice Level: For a little kick, add a tiny pinch of finely chopped green chili to each glass while muddling. Trust me, it’s surprisingly good!
• Summer/Heatwave Adaptation: If it’s really hot, add a splash of coconut water for extra electrolytes and cooling power.

Serving Suggestions

This cooler is perfect on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with light snacks like:

• Samosas
• Pakoras
• Chaat

It’s also a fantastic accompaniment to a spicy Indian meal – the coolness really balances out the heat.

Storage Instructions

Honestly, this drink is best enjoyed immediately. The ice will melt, and the flavours will start to fade. However, you can prepare the cucumber-mint base (steps 1-3) ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a couple of hours. Just add the lemon juice, ice, and club soda right before serving.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• Is this drink best served immediately? Absolutely! It’s at its most refreshing when freshly made.
• Can I prepare the cucumber-mint base ahead of time? Yes, you can, but don’t add the lemon juice or club soda until you’re ready to serve.
• What is black salt and can I substitute it? Black salt (kala namak) has a unique flavour. If you can’t find it, you can use regular table salt, but it won’t have the same depth of flavour. Himalayan pink salt is a decent substitute.
• Can I use sparkling water instead of club soda? You can, but club soda has a slightly saltier taste that complements the black salt beautifully. Sparkling water is a bit sweeter.
• How can I adjust the sweetness level of this cooler? Start with the recommended amount of sugar and then add more, a little at a time, until it reaches your desired sweetness.

Enjoy your cool and refreshing cucumber mint cooler! Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you. Cheers!