For Cucumber Gin* (prepare 3-5 days prior to use)

• 2 cucumbers, peeled
• 1 liter (about 4 cups) gin

For the Cucumber-Mint Gimlet

• ice cubes
• 3 oz Cucumber Gin* (or favorite gin muddled with cucumber slices)
• ½ oz freshly-squeezed lime juice
• ¼ oz simple syrup (equal parts sugar & water)
• 6 mint leaves

Garnish Suggestions

• mint leaves
• thin cucumber slices

Equipment for Cucumber Gin

• large glass container
• fine-mesh strainer
• bottles with lids for storing

Equipment for Cucumber-Mint Gimlet

• chilled cocktail glass
• cocktail shaker

Make Cucumber Gin (prepare 3-5 days before use)

1. Slice and rough chop the peeled cucumbers
2. Add to a large glass container
3. Add gin to cover the cucumbers
4. Cover top of container with plastic wrap secured with a rubber band and store in a cool and dark location for 3-5 days. Start tasting around the morning of day 3. If you want stronger flavor, let infuse another 2 days
5. When you're happy with the taste, strain into bottles, cap and if not using immediately, store in the refrigerator

Make Simple Syrup

1. Add equal parts sugar and water to a saucepan
2. Bring to just shy of a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar
3. Remove from heat, cool to room temperature.  Chill until needed
4. (Make as much or as little simple syrup as you like. Will last in a covered container, refrigerated, for about 3 months)

Shake Up a Gimlet

1. Fill a shaker with ice
2. Add Cucumber Gin, lime juice, simple syrup and mint leaves
3. Cap the shaker and shake vigorously
4. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass
5. Garnish with cucumber slices and mint leaves (optional) and enjoy immediately