The Cuke Cocktail
As published in the The New York Times
This recipe is back by popular demand. I can’t think of a better way to use up all of those delicious cucumbers. This is one divine cocktail!
6 limes, rinsed
1 cup packed mint leaves, no stems, plus 6 sprigs for garnish
3 unwaxed cucumbers
1/2 cup sugar
2 cups Gin or Vodka (Hendrick’s gin is recommended)
Sparkling water
Thinly slice 3 limes and place in a pitcher. Juice the rest and add juice to pitcher. Add mint leaves. Slice 2 cucumbers and add, then add sugar. Muddle all ingredients together. Add vodka or gin. Place in refrigerator to steep 30 minutes or longer.
Peel remaining cucumber and cut lengthwise into 6 spears.
Fill six highball or other large glasses with ice. Strain mixture from pitcher into each. Top with a splash of sparkling water, garnish each glass with a sprig of mint and a cucumber spear and serve.
Yield: Approximately 6 drinks
