Virgin Mojitos

Ingredients:

• 10-15 small fresh mint leaves, plus a sprig for garnish
• 1 lime, sliced into thin rounds
• 1 lime, juiced (approx. 1 oz. or 2 tablespoons of juice)
• 1 oz. (2 tablespoons) simple sugar syrup* 
• ice, cubes or crushed
• 5 oz. (10 tablespoons) club soda

*Simple Syrup: Equal parts sugar and water, heated until the sugar dissolves. (Your yield will be the same as the amount of water you use.)

Directions:

Use a tall 14 to 16 oz. glass. Put mint leaves and half of lime slices in bottom of glass. Add lime juice and simple syrup. Use muddler or end of wooden spoon to muddle ingredients, pressing and twisting  5-6 times--just enough to release oils and juices. Fill glass with ice. Pour in club soda. Use long spoon to gently stir from bottom.

For a prettier appearance, slide in additional lime slices and mint leaves. Garnish top with lime slice and mint sprig.

This recipe is on the tart side. If you prefer a sweeter drink, increase simple syrup or reduce lime juice.

Recipe Courtesy: The Yummy Life