Derby Party Cucumber Mint Lemonade (Mocktail or Cocktail)

A bright, refreshing Derby-party drink with cucumber and mint—serve as a mocktail or spike it.

This is one of those drinks that just tastes like summer.

It's light, refreshing, and perfect for Derby parties, backyard cookouts, or sitting on the patio after a long day. The cucumber keeps it crisp, the mint adds a fresh pop of flavor, and the lemonade brings just the right amount of sweetness.

I usually serve it as a mocktail so everyone can enjoy it, then let guests add a splash of bourbon or vodka if they want to turn it into a cocktail.

Either way, it's a simple drink that looks pretty and disappears fast.

Ingredients

• 1 cucumber, sliced

• 1/2 cup fresh mint

• 1 cup lemon juice

• 3/4 cup simple syrup (to taste)

• 5 cups cold water or sparkling water

• Ice

• Optional: bourbon or vodka

  
  

Instructions

1. Muddle cucumber and mint in a pitcher.

2. Add lemon juice, simple syrup, and water; stir.

3. Chill 30 minutes; strain if desired.

4. Serve over ice; add bourbon per glass if you like.

   
   

Kentucky Tip

Make it sparkling right before serving so it stays fizzy.