Thai Lime Leaf Cooler By LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort

• 16 ounce vodka
• 8 wild lime leaves
• 2 inches fresh ginger root, minced
• 1.25 cup sugar
• 1.25 cup water
• 1 large cucumber
• 2 limes, sliced
• 1 liter club soda

1. • Combine the lime leaves with the vodka in a mason jar or other tightly sealed container. Let infuse for at least one day, and up to four days. • Heat the ginger, sugar and water in a small saucepan until boiling. Reduce to low and let simmer for five minutes. Let cool. • Meanwhile, peel the cucumber so that no green peel remains (it should look almost white). Half the cucumber lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds. Slice each cucumber half lengthwise into long strips, then cut crosswise into a fine dice. Make sure the cucumber pieces are big enough that they won't get sucked up through a straw. • For each drink, muddle 1 tablespoon of cucumber in the bottom of a glass. Add 1.5 ounce (one "shot") of the infused vodka, followed by 1 ounce of the cooled ginger syrup. Add ice to the brim, then top with 3 ounces club soda. Garnish with a lime slice and additional wild lime leaves if desired.