Cucumber-Lime Cocktail

Directions

1. 1
   Peel, seed, and dice cucumbers.
2. 2
   Place the cucumbers in a large pitcher or other container with a lid.
3. 3
   Add gin. Stir. Set aside in a cool, dark place (the refrigerator if needed) for 3 days. Once per day, stir.
4. 4
   Place a fine mesh strainer over a large measuring cup. Strain the cucumber/gin infusion into the measuring cup. Using a spoon, push as much liquid as possible out of the cucumber and through the strainer.
5. 5
   Place a cheesecloth-lined funnel (I never said it was easy!) in the original gin bottle.
6. 6
   Pour the contents through the cheesecloth and into the bottle. Will keep 6 months. Does not need refrigeration.
7. 7
   Fill two cocktail glasses with large ice cubes. Set aside to chill.
8. 8
   Fill a cocktail shaker with large ice cubes. Add the cucumber-infused gin, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds (or more if you have a crowd). Let sit until the outside of the shaker starts to bead.
9. 9
   Discard the ice in the cocktail glass.
10. 10
    Strain the contents of the shaker into the glass.
11. 11
    Float a cucumber slice on top of the drink, and garnish with the lime wedge. Enjoy.
12. 12
    * if you really want to be bold and dazzle your guests, you'll add some diced jalapeno when making your simple syrup. It really adds a nice zing!