Begin by washing a large English cucumber thoroughly. Thinly slice the cucumber and submerge the slices in a bowl of ice-cold water for about 10-15 minutes.

Once the cucumber slices are chilled, peel and chop enough cucumber to yield about 1 cup of cubes. Set aside the cubed cucumber.

In a blender, combine the cucumber cubes, 3 tablespoons of your chosen sweetener, and 6-8 fresh mint leaves. Add 2 cups of water to the mixture and blend on high for 30-60 seconds.

Strain the blended mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a large bowl or pitcher.

Stir in 3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice and 1 teaspoon of optional black salt.

Fill tall glasses with ice cubes, then pour the chilled Cucumber Mint Cooler mixture over the ice. Garnish with lime rings and extra mint leaves.