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Non-alcoholic lime rickey

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Non-Alcoholic Lime Rickey Recipe

By Sandra · · Updated

A non-alcoholic Lime Rickey is the juice of one to one and a half limes and about a tablespoon of simple syrup, topped with club soda over ice. It takes a few minutes and has roughly 39 kcal per glass.

For those of you who prefer to keep things light and non-alcoholic, I've got a delightful treat for your taste buds—the Non-Alcoholic Lime Rickey! This zesty refresher hails from classic cocktails but has been transformed into a virgin delight that anyone can enjoy.

1 serving·10 min

Recipe reviewed 29 Sep 2026. How we test recipes.

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WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

Servings1

METHOD

How to make it

  1. Prepare the Simple Syrup: If you haven't already got simple syrup, you can easily make it by mixing equal parts sugar and water. Heat the mixture in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved. Allow it to cool before using.
  2. Juice the Limes: Roll the limes on the counter, applying some pressure to help loosen the juices. Slice the limes in half and use a citrus juicer or your hands to squeeze out the lime juice into a glass. You should get about 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons of lime juice.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Fill a highball glass or a beverage shaker with ice. Add the simple syrup to pour the freshly squeezed lime juice over the ice.
  4. Top with Seltzer: Pour club soda or seltzer water into the glass, almost filling it to the brim. Stir gently to mix the lime juice, simple syrup, and club soda together.
  5. Garnish and Serve: If desired, add a lime wheel or wedge to the rim of the glass for a pop of color and extra lime flavor. You can also add a sprig of fresh mint for a fragrant touch.
  6. Enjoy: Sip your homemade Non-Alcoholic Lime Rickey and revel in its tangy, bubbly goodness.
More in this article 5 sections
  1. Tips and Variations:
  2. What to serve with
  3. Ingredients Substitutes
  4. Final Thoughts
  5. More Lime Recipes:

Non-Alcoholic Lime Rickey with a lemon slice, best for summer refreshment.

Non-Alcoholic Lime Rickey Recipe

A Non-Alcoholic Lime Rickey is a refreshing, non-alcoholic beverage that combines the tartness of lime with the enthusiasm of soda. It's a variation of the classic Lime Rickey, which traditionally includes lime juice, soda water, and sometimes a sweetener, but without any alcohol.

Tips and Variations:

  • Balance of Flavors: The key to a perfect Lime Rickey is the balance between the tanginess of the lime and the sweetness of the syrup.
  • Quality of Ingredients: Use fresh limes rather than bottled lime juice for the best flavor.
  • Customization: You can personalize your drink by infusing the simple syrup with additional flavors, such as ginger, basil, or lavender.
  • Presentation: If you're going for a presentation, freeze some small lime slices or wedges into ice cubes for an added visual appeal.
  • Alcoholic Version: For those who do want the traditional alcoholic version, simply add a shot of gin to the mix.
  • Chilled Glassware: To elevate your Lime Rickey experience, chill your glassware before serving. This will keep your drink colder for longer on hot summer days.

What to serve with

The sharp lime and bubbles suit salty, grilled or citrusy food: fresh salsa, ceviche, spicy grilled shrimp or chicken skewers, and chili-lime popcorn. For dessert, key lime pie or lime sorbet keeps the theme.

Ingredients Substitutes

Lime Rickey

A non-alcoholic lime rickey is a simple, effervescent drink traditionally made with lime juice, simple syrup, and soda water. It is a refreshing option suitable for all ages and occasions. Numerous ingredient substitutes can be employed for those looking to get creative or adapt to dietary preferences and pantry limitations.

Lime Juice

  • Lemon Juice: The closest in flavor profile, lemon juice provides the same citrus tang and vibrancy.
  • Grapefruit Juice: For a slightly different tartness and a hint of bitterness, grapefruit juice can be an exciting alternative.
  • Bottled Lime Juice: Fresh is preferred for its vibrant flavor, but it can work in a pinch. Be mindful that it may be more concentrated and slightly bitter.
  • Citric Acid Solution: This is a bit unconventional, but for those strictly out of citrus, a very diluted solution of citric acid with water can mimic the tartness. Start small, as it's potent.

Simple Syrup

  • Honey Syrup: Mix equal parts honey and water for a natural, floral sweetness.
  • Agave Syrup: A great vegan option, agave syrup can be used directly instead of simple syrup. It's sweeter, so you may want to use less.
  • Maple Syrup: While it will add a distinct flavor, maple syrup can offer an incredible depth and autumnal sweetness to your drink.
  • Stevia or Monk Fruit Sweetener: For a lower-calorie option, these sweeteners can be dissolved in water to create a "syrup". Adjust to taste as these tend to be much sweeter than sugar.

Soda Water

  • Sparkling Mineral Water: Provides additional minerals that can enhance the overall flavor profile.
  • Club Soda: Very similar to soda water but may contain added minerals for taste.
  • Tonic Water: This will add a slightly bitter flavor due to quinine, which can be an exciting twist for those who enjoy complexity.
  • Ginger Ale or Lemon-Lime Soda: These can be used for a sweeter, flavored effervescence, but they may significantly alter the traditional Lime Rickey taste towards more of a soft drink experience.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to make this delightful beverage, your Non-Alcoholic Lime Rickey is sure to be a hit at any gathering or just as a special treat to enjoy by yourself.

More Lime Recipes:

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