Raspberry, Cucumber, and Mint Smash

By ROBandSEAN

This refreshing drink has all the makings of a signature party cocktail. It can be adjusted to taste (using light rum instead of the gin will tilt it toward a mojito). And the pitcher-size format means more time with guests rather than shaking drinks.

Ingredients

• 1 cup raspberries, divided
• 1/4 English cucumber, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons packed fresh mint leaves, plus 4 or 5 mint sprigs
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 3 ounces lemon juice
• 8 ounces gin
• 1 bottle (12 to 14 oz.) cold seltz

Details

Servings 4
Cooking time 10mins
Adapted from myrecipes.com

Preparation

Step 1

Put 1/3 cup raspberries, the cucumber, and 2 tbsp. mint in a pitcher. Add sugar. Mash with a wooden spoon or muddler until raspberries are crushed and mint is aromatic. Add lemon juice and gin and stir until sugar dissolves. Add seltzer to pitcher; gently stir.
Set ice cubes in 4 or 5 glasses (12-oz. size). Divide remaining raspberries among glasses. Pour in the cocktail and tuck a mint sprig into each glass.