📖 Instructions

1. Prepare the Cucumber and Mint: Begin by washing one medium-sized cucumber thoroughly. No need to peel it, as the skin adds both flavor and nutrients. Roughly chop the cucumber into smaller pieces. Grab a handful of fresh mint leaves, about 20-30 leaves should do the trick. Give them a quick rinse to remove any dirt or debris. This is a crucial step; you don't want any unexpected grit in your drink!
2. Combine Ingredients in Blender: Toss the chopped cucumber and mint leaves into your blender. Add 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice. Trust me, bottled juice just doesn't compare; fresh is the way to go. Pour in about 2 cups of cold water to help with the blending process. If you like a stronger flavor, you can start with less water and add more to adjust the consistency later. A tiny pinch of salt can really make the flavors pop.
3. Blend Until Smooth: Secure the lid on your blender and blend the mixture until it's completely smooth. This should take about 1-2 minutes, depending on your blender's power. Keep an eye on it, and stop to scrape down the sides if necessary to ensure everything is evenly blended. You're looking for a vibrant green liquid with no visible chunks.
4. Strain the Mixture (Optional): If you prefer a smoother drink without any pulp, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth. Place the sieve over a pitcher or large glass, and slowly pour the blended mixture through it. Use a spoon to gently press down on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. If you don't mind a bit of texture, you can skip this step altogether. Straining does make for a more refined drink, though, so consider it if you're serving to guests.
5. Adjust Water and Sweetness (If Needed): Taste your cucumber mint cooler and decide if it needs any adjustments. If it's too strong, add more water to dilute the flavor. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a teaspoon or two of honey, agave nectar, or simple syrup. Stir well to ensure the sweetener is fully dissolved. Remember, you can always add more, but you can't take it away, so start with a little and adjust to your liking.
6. Serve and Garnish: Fill a glass with ice cubes. Pour the cucumber mint cooler over the ice, leaving a little room at the top. Garnish with a few thin slices of cucumber and a sprig of fresh mint. A lime wedge on the rim of the glass adds a nice touch, both visually and flavor-wise. Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy your revitalizing cucumber mint cooler!
7. Enjoy! I recommend pairing it with a light lunch on a hot day, such as a salad. One time I had this with my friends on the beach during summer, and we all loved it so much!