Mint Lemon Strawberry Refresher

Name: Mint Lemon Strawberry Refresher
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 2 cups sparkling water; Ice cubes

Highlighted under: Seasonal Flavor Moments

I absolutely love creating refreshing drinks that awaken my senses, and the Mint Lemon Strawberry Refresher is my latest favorite. With the bright flavors of mint and lemon combined with sweet strawberries, it's like a summer escape in a glass. This drink is perfect for hot days when I need something both hydrating and revitalizing. The best part? It's simple to make with just a few fresh ingredients that I usually have on hand. Join me in making this delicious, thirst-quenching refresher!

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2026-02-16T12:33:37.825Z

Recently, I had the idea to make a drink that captures the essence of summer, and that’s how this Mint Lemon Strawberry Refresher came to life. I started by muddling fresh strawberries with mint leaves to release the aromatic oils, which added an incredible depth of flavor. The splash of fresh lemon juice harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries, creating a perfect balance.

To elevate the drink, I opted for sparkling water instead of soda for a light fizz that enhances the minty essence without overwhelming the taste. This small adjustment makes a huge difference, resulting in a refreshing beverage I can enjoy guilt-free, any time of day.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and refreshing mint flavor that invigorates the senses
Natural sweetness from fresh strawberries without added sugar
A beautiful drink that impresses at summer gatherings

Enhancing Flavor with Quality Ingredients

The quality of strawberries you choose can significantly influence the taste of your Mint Lemon Strawberry Refresher. Look for bright red, ripe strawberries that are fragrant and firm. Organic strawberries can provide an even more robust flavor since they are typically grown without harmful pesticides, enhancing the drink's freshness.

Using fresh mint leaves is key to achieving that invigorating aroma and taste. Avoid using dried mint, as it lacks the vibrant flavor profile and can result in a dull drink. A gentle wash and pat dry are all the prep these flavorful leaves need—just be careful not to bruise them too much before muddling.

The Art of Muddling

Muddling is where the magic begins in this drink. When combining the strawberries and mint, use just enough pressure to release the juices without completely pulverizing the fruit. Aim for a consistency where the strawberries are broken up but still have some texture; this provides a lovely visual and adds bursts of fresh flavor when sipped.

If you find that the muddled mixture is a bit too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a splash of sparkling water before incorporating the rest. This way, you can still enjoy the fresh flavors without feeling overwhelmed by the thickness.

Ingredients

For the Refresher

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 cups sparkling water
Ice cubes

Combine these ingredients for a delicious and refreshing drink!

Instructions

Muddle the Strawberries and Mint

In a mixing glass, combine the sliced strawberries and fresh mint leaves. Use a muddler to gently crush them together, releasing their juices and fragrant oils.

Mix in Lemon Juice

Add the fresh lemon juice to the muddled mixture and stir gently to combine all the flavors.

Add Sparkling Water

Pour the sparkling water over the mixture, filling the glass. Stir gently to mix without losing the bubbles.

Serve Over Ice

Fill two glasses with ice cubes and pour the refresher over the ice. Garnish with extra mint leaves and sliced strawberries, if desired.

Enjoy your Mint Lemon Strawberry Refresher immediately for a burst of flavor!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can rim your glasses with sugar or salt, depending on your preference, before serving. This adds a delightful twist to each sip!

Variations on the Classic Refresher

Feel free to experiment with different fruits to create your customized refresher! For instance, substituting half the strawberries with ripe peaches or watermelon adds a unique twist while still keeping the drink light and refreshing. Just ensure the fruit you choose pairs well with mint and lemon to maintain that bright flavor profile.

You can also adjust the sweetness to your taste. If you prefer a sweeter drink, consider adding a teaspoon of honey or agave syrup to the mix. Just remember to mix thoroughly to dissolve the sweetener completely before adding the sparkling water.

Storing and Serving Tips

The Mint Lemon Strawberry Refresher is best enjoyed immediately due to the effervescence of the sparkling water. However, if you need to prepare it ahead of time, muddle the strawberries and mint, add the lemon juice, and refrigerate the mixture without the sparkling water. When ready to serve, pour in the sparkling water and ice for that freshly made taste.

This drink can also be turned into a delightful mocktail or cocktail. Add a splash of vodka or rum for an adult version, or make it a festive punch by mixing in other seasonal fruits when hosting a gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this drink ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the strawberry and mint mixture in advance, but it's best to add the sparkling water just before serving to retain its fizz.

→ Is it possible to use frozen strawberries?

Absolutely! If fresh strawberries aren’t available, frozen strawberries work well. Just let them thaw slightly for easier muddling.

→ Can I use other fruits in this refresher?

Definitely! You can substitute strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches for a different flavor profile.

→ How can I make this drink non-alcoholic?

This recipe is already non-alcoholic. To add a twist, you can incorporate a splash of juice like cranberry or apple for additional flavor.