Cucumber Ginger Spritzer

Few things can claim the cooling and calming effects of the cucumber, which is why we’ve included it in this refreshing spring spritzer. Unwind after a long day with this smooth, subtle cocktail for a spa-like outcome without the hefty price.

Spicy ginger works its magic to offer the perfect pick-me-up, while lime and cucumber work hard to beat the heat. Give yourself a second wind to finish out the day by mixing up a batch of this soothing spritzer.

Ingredients:

6 ounces premium vodka

1 cucumber, preferably English

Juice of 1 lime

1 bottle club soda

1/2 cup ginger syrup, recipe to follow

Directions:

Peel and coarsely chop one half of the cucumber. In a nonreactive container combine cucumber with vodka, and chill for at least 1 hour. Once chilled, strain vodka and discard cucumber.

Using a vegetable peeler, slice long strips of remaining half of cucumber and remove all seeds.

Fill 4 to 5 tumblers with ice, adding two or three cucumber slices to each. Add 1 tablespoon each of lime juice and ginger syrup*. Stir in 3 tablespoons of cucumber vodka and top of with club soda.

Serves:

4

*To Make Ginger Syrup:

Bring equal parts sugar and water to a gentle boil in a small saucepan. Stir mixture constantly until sugar has fully dissolved, about 3 minutes.

Add 6 to 8 thin slices of ginger to simple syrup and reduce heat to a simmer. Let steep for at least 20 minutes and remove from heat.

Strain syrup into heatproof container and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.