If you’ve ever ordered the Cucumber Mint Lime beverage at Cava, you already know how crisp and refreshing it is—like a spa day in a cup. It’s the perfect mix of cool cucumber, tart lime, and fresh mint, lightly sweetened and served over ice.
The best part? You can make this Cava-inspired cucumber mint lime drink at home with just a few ingredients. It’s naturally hydrating, low in sugar, and totally customizable.
Whether you’re serving it at a summer brunch, pouring a glass post-workout, or just trying to get your water intake up, this is one of those drinks that makes staying refreshed easy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This is the kind of drink you’ll crave year-round—but especially when it’s hot outside. It’s bright, citrusy, and ultra-refreshing, with no artificial ingredients. Fresh cucumber and mint bring the cooling factor, while lime adds the perfect tart balance.
It’s also incredibly easy to make in a blender and stores beautifully in the fridge. This means you can make a big batch ahead of time, keep it chilled, and sip all week. It’s great for kids too—just the right amount of sweetness without any added junk.
What You’ll Need
- 1 large English cucumber (or 2 medium regular cucumbers)
- 1/3 cup fresh lime juice (from 3–4 limes)
- 1/4 cup honey or agave syrup (adjust to taste)
- 3 cups cold water
- 1/3 cup fresh mint leaves
- Pinch of salt (enhances flavor)
- Ice, for serving
- Optional garnish: cucumber ribbons, lime slices, extra mint
Pro Tips
- Use English cucumbers for fewer seeds and a sweeter taste.
- Chill your ingredients before blending for the coldest, most refreshing drink.
- Strain through a fine mesh sieve if you want a smoother finish.
- Use fresh-squeezed lime juice—bottled won’t have the same brightness.
- Adjust sweetness to taste—especially if your cucumbers are already sweet.
Tools You’ll Need
- Blender
- Fine mesh strainer (optional)
- Citrus juicer
- Large pitcher
- Measuring cups
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Serving glasses
Substitutions and Variations
- No honey? Use maple syrup, agave, or a few drops of liquid stevia.
- Make it sparkling: Swap half of the water for sparkling water after blending.
- Add fruit: Blend in green apple, pineapple, or melon for a flavor twist.
- Make it a cocktail: Add a splash of vodka, tequila, or gin for an adult version.
- Herb variation: Try basil or lemon balm instead of mint for a unique spin.
Make Ahead Tips
- Make up to 2 days ahead and store in a sealed pitcher in the fridge.
- Shake or stir before serving, as natural separation will occur.
- Freeze leftovers into ice cubes for flavoring water or tea.
How to Make Cava Cucumber Mint Lime Drink
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Peel (optional) and roughly chop the cucumber. Juice the limes. Wash and pat dry mint leaves.
Step 2: Blend
In a blender, combine chopped cucumber, lime juice, honey, cold water, mint leaves, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth, about 30–45 seconds.
Step 3: Strain (Optional)
Pour mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a large pitcher for a smoother drink. Press gently with a spoon to extract all the liquid.
Step 4: Chill or Serve Over Ice
Serve immediately over ice or chill in the fridge for 1–2 hours for best flavor. Garnish with cucumber slices, lime wheels, and mint.
Leftovers and Storage
- Store in the fridge in a sealed pitcher or bottle for up to 3 days.
- Shake or stir before serving if separation occurs.
- Freeze into cubes to use in water, tea, or future batches of sangria.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I make this without a blender?
Yes! Use a food processor or finely grate the cucumber and muddle with mint before stirring in other ingredients. The texture will be more rustic.
2. Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh is highly recommended for flavor and brightness, but bottled can work in a pinch—use a high-quality, 100% lime juice brand.
3. Is this drink sweet or tart?
It’s balanced. You can control the sweetness by adjusting the honey or agave to your preference.
4. What’s the difference between this and agua fresca?
This drink is essentially a cucumber-mint agua fresca, but inspired by Cava’s exact flavor combo. It’s lighter than juice, less sweet than soda, and naturally hydrating.
Crisp, Cool, and Seriously Sippable
This Cava-inspired cucumber mint lime drink is more than a pretty beverage—it’s a feel-good refresher you’ll want to keep in your fridge all summer long. It’s hydrating, balanced, and easy enough to blend up on a weekday. Serve it with brunch, sip it on the patio, or make it your go-to afternoon pick-me-up.
Try it out and let me know—did you keep it classic or give it a twist with your own flair? I’d love to hear how you made it yours!