Keep it Cool

Keep it Cool

Perfect with: a cucumber martini, sparkling water, or any light, refreshing drink

1. Hold a cucumber (or try a firm, ripe pear) in one hand and a paring knife in the other. Place the blade about 2 inches from the end of the cucumber and start the cut right under the surface of the skin, sliding the blade at an angle in toward the center of the cucumber.

2. Rotate cucumber and repeat four more times (each cut creates a petal), making sure the cuts connect.

3. Twist off the flower by gently rotating the cucumber's end back and forth.

4. Cut a vertical slit in the bottom of the flower, then slide it on the edge of a glass.

Tip: Store the flowers in cold water to keep them fresh.