Cucumber-mint water

Ingredients:

• 2 medium cucumbers, chopped
• 1/3 cup sugar
• Juice of 1 lemon
• A small handful of fresh mint leaves
• A large pinch of coarse salt
• Ice cubes, for serving
• Gin or vodka, to serve, optional

Preparation:

1. Combine cucumbers, sugar, lemon juice, mint, salt, and 4 cups of cold water in a blender and blend until smooth (there will be some solids remaining). If all the ingredients don't fit in the blender, add only half the water, blend, transfer the puree to a larger container, and add the remaining water. Refrigerate until completely chilled, at least 1 hour.
2. Before serving, strain the cucumber-mint water through a fine sieve, pressing the mixture with a spoon. Discard any remaining liquid. Serve over ice. Add gin or vodka to taste, if using.