A toast to National Cucumber Day

Who knew it was National Cucumber Day? Of course, in New Orleans, that means you put them in your go cup. Here’s a recipe (as if you need one!) from family-owned distillery William Grant & Sons.

June 14 – National Cucumber Day

The flavor of Hendrick’s Gin comes from the infusion of rose petals and cucumber,. Iin antitipation of National Cucumber Day, the company has been flying a 130-foot cucumber-shaped airship, named (of course) The Flying Cucumber, on a coast to coast expedition to champion the cucumber (which is actually a fruit!).

Cucumber Basil Smash

• 1 1/2 parts gin
• 3/4 part lemon juice
• 3/4 part simple syrup
• 3-5 leaves fresh basil
• 3-5 cucumber wheels

In a mixing glass, muddle basil, cucumber and simple syrup. Add gin, lemon juice and ice. Shake well and strain into an iced double rocks glass. Garnish with basil leaf and cucumber wheel.