Crisp Cucumber Basil Sparkling Lime
Experience garden-fresh hydration! This ultra-light, spa-worthy limeade combines cool cucumber, aromatic basil, and zesty lime with effervescent bubbles. Naturally detoxifying, alcohol-free, and ready in minutes—perfect for hot days, post-workout refreshment, or elegant brunches.
Serves 4 | Prep time: 7 mins | 37 calories/serving
Ingredients
- ¾ cup fresh lime juice (≈6–8 limes, adjust to taste)
- 2–3 tbsp honey simple syrup (start with 2 tbsp)
- 1 cup chilled club soda (like Topo Chico or Perrier)
- 1 medium seedless cucumber (*sliced ¼-inch thick, ~12 slices*)
- 8–10 fresh basil leaves (+ sprigs for garnish)
- Crushed ice
Why these ingredients shine:
🌿 Cucumber skin adds nutrients + vibrant green hue (no peeling needed!).
🍋 Fresh lime juice beats bottled—brightens without bitterness.
💦 Club soda adds crisp fizz without sugar or calories.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Lime Base
- Roll limes before juicing (releases 20% more juice!).
- Combine lime juice + 2 tbsp honey syrup in a pitcher. Taste: Add 1 more tbsp if too tart.
2. Muddle Cucumber & Basil
- In each glass: Add 3 cucumber slices + 2 basil leaves.
- Gently muddle until cucumbers release juice and basil is fragrant (don’t shred!).
3. Layer & Sparkle
- Fill glasses ¾ full with crushed ice.
- Pour lime mix halfway up the glass.
- Slowly top with club soda (preserves bubbles!).
- Garnish with cucumber ribbon + basil sprig.
🌟 Pro Tips:
- Extra refreshing? Chill glasses 10 mins beforehand.
- Herb boost: Add ½ tsp finely chopped basil to the pitcher.
- Spa upgrade: Use Persian cucumbers (thinner skin, sweeter flesh).
- Savory twist: Rim glasses with tajín or sea salt.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
| Calories | Carbs | Sugar |
|---|---|---|
| 37 | 9g | 7g |
| *Fat: 0g | Protein: 0g | Fiber: 1g* |
Dietary Notes:
✔️ Vegan (use maple syrup)
✔️ Gluten-free | Low-sodium
✔️ Alkaline-friendly | Keto-friendly*
(Reduce syrup to 1 tbsp)*
Why You’ll Love This:
“This tastes like a luxury spa day in a glass! The cucumber-basil combo makes plain limeade seem boring. My guests thought it was a fancy cocktail.”
— Lena, FL (recipe tester)
Perfect Pairings:
🥒 Greek tzatziki + pita
🍣 Fresh sushi or ceviche
🥗 Quinoa salad with feta