1. Prepare the cucumber juice: Wash and peel 1 large cucumber. Cut into chunks and juice using a juicer. If using a blender, blend the cucumber chunks with a splash of water until smooth, then strain through a fine mesh strainer to extract the juice. You should have about 1/3 cup of cucumber juice.

2. Prepare the garnish: Wash the second cucumber and dice into small, bite-sized pieces. Slice the lemon into thin rounds. Gently bruise the basil leaves by clapping them between your hands to release their aroma.

3. Mix the base: In a large pitcher, combine equal parts (1/3 cup each) of fresh cucumber juice, honey, and basil vinegar. Stir well until the honey is completely dissolved. This creates your concentrated basil cucumber cooler base.

4. Assemble the drinks: Fill glasses with ice cubes. Add a handful of diced cucumber to each glass. Pour the cucumber juice mixture over the ice, filling glasses about 3/4 full.

5. Add finishing touches: Top with sparkling water if desired for a fizzy version. Garnish each glass with lemon slices and fresh basil leaves.

6. Serve immediately: Stir gently before drinking and enjoy this refreshing, healthy beverage!

Chef’s Tips

• For the sweetest flavor, use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers

• Adjust honey to taste - start with less and add more as needed but equal parts of each is a good base

• For a mocktail version, add a splash of ginger ale or sparkling water

• Can be made ahead: prepare the juice mixture and store in refrigerator for up to 1 week

Variations

• Mint Cooler: Replace basil with fresh mint leaves

• Spicy Kick: Add a thin slice of jalapeño for heat