Rebecca's Recipes: Summer Mint & Cucumber Spritz
When the summer heat peaks, I tend to gravitate towards refreshing drinks that combine crisp and cool flavours with a hint of citrus. This Summer Mint & Cucumber Spritz is inspired by the elegant simplicity of classic spritzers, but with a twist that makes it ideal for a barbecue or garden party.
The delicate flavour of the cucumber infuses with the zest of the citrus fruit and punch of the mint to create a perfectly balanced cocktail that is both refreshing and sophisticated. A simple mix of prosecco and soda water provides the ideal base for these flavours to take centre stage, while also adding that essential fizz.
This cocktail is quick and easy to make from scratch, ready to serve. If you have mint growing in your garden (I recommend growing in pots, as it has a tendency to spread rapidly), foraging a few sprigs just prior to serving is a lovely, personal touch.
Recipe
Serves six.
Ingredients:
1 bottle of prosecco
1 litre of soda water
1 cucumber
6 leaves of fresh mint, plug extra sprigs for garnish
2 lemons or limes
Method:
1. Fill your glasses with ice cubes.
2. Using a vegetable peeler, slice the cucumbers into thin ribbons (discard the first layer with the skin). These ribbons not only add to the visual appeal of the drink, but also allow the cucumber's essence to infuse into the cocktail.
3. Place the cucumber ribbons in the glass and add the mint leaves. Gently mix them together using a cocktail spoon or drink stirrer to release the aromatic oils from the mint, creating a tantalising fragrant base.
4. Squeeze the juice from half a lemon or lime into the glass, reserving the remaining half for garnish. The citrus juice adds a lively tang, balancing the coolness of the cucumber.
5. Pour a 50 ml measure of prosecco and then top up with the soda water to taste. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with sprigs of mint and slices of lemon or lime for a finishing flourish.
Tips for Presentation
Glassware: to elevate the occasion, serve your spritz in your favourite glassware - crystal highball tumblers work very well.
Garnish: a simple sprig of mint or a slice of citrus can make all the difference in presentation. For a special occasion, try adding edible flowers or a twist of cucumber ribbon.
To serve: Serve with one of our linen cocktail napkins, for an extra touch of elegance and to protect your surfaces.
