Tomato-Cucumber Cocktail
A refreshing and vibrant cold beverage blending cucumber and vegetable juice with zesty lemon and celery salt, perfect for summer gatherings or health-conscious drinkers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel cucumbers and chop finely.
- Cook the chopped cucumbers in a small amount of water on medium heat for about 5 minutes.
- Drain well and process cucumbers and 2 cups of vegetable juice cocktail in a blender or food processor until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a pitcher.
- Stir in the remaining vegetable juice cocktail and celery salt.
- Serve over ice cubes in a tall glass, garnished with a cucumber slice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, consider adding a splash of hot sauce for some heat or a pinch of fresh herbs like dill or basil. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can reserve some chopped cucumber to stir in at the end. This cocktail can also be made ahead of time; just mix the juices and cucumbers together right before serving for the freshest flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Tomato-Cucumber Cocktail in tall glasses over ice, garnished with fresh cucumber slices for an elegant touch. It pairs wonderfully with light appetizers like bruschetta or Mediterranean recipes, making it an ideal choice for summer gatherings. For a more filling option, consider serving it alongside Stuffed Bell Peppers With Collard Greens.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you find the cocktail thickens after chilling, simply stir in a little cold water or additional vegetable juice before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change and become watery once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato-Cucumber Cocktail contains roughly 22 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh vegetable juice instead of the canned cocktail?
Absolutely! Using fresh vegetable juice will enhance the flavor and freshness of the cocktail. Just ensure the juice is well-seasoned, as canned versions often contain added salt and flavorings that you might want to adjust in your fresh version.
Is this cocktail suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this Tomato-Cucumber Cocktail is entirely vegan-friendly, making it a great option for those following vegan recipes. All the ingredients are plant-based, ensuring everyone at your gathering can enjoy this refreshing drink without worry.
What are some variations I can try with this recipe?
You can customize this cocktail by adding different vegetables, such as bell peppers or celery, for added texture. Additionally, consider blending in a splash of lime juice or garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to elevate the flavors further.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).