Makes 2 servings

• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup packed mint leaves
• Ice, for serving
• 1 (12-ounce) bottle sparkling water, cold
• Lime slices, for garnish
• Mint sprigs, for garnish

Combine the lime juice, sugar, and mint in a blender. Puree until smooth. Fill two tall glasses halfway with ice cubes. Pour half of the lime juice concentrate in each. Top with sparkling water, garnish with lime and mint, and serve.

Mojito

Pour 1 ounce rum into tall glass with ice, and top with Minty Lime Cooler.

Premier Mojito

• 7 medium mint leaves
• 5 lime wedges
• 1 1/2 ounces Simple Syrup (see recipe below)
• 1 1/2 ounces rum
• A couple splashes sparkling water
• Ice, for serving
• 1 lime slice, for garnish
• 1 mint sprig, for garnish

In a cocktail shaker, combine mint leaves, lime wedges, and simple syrup. Using a muddler or the back of a spoon, mash the mint and lime wedges to release their juices. Add rum and shake well. Top off with a splash or two of sparkling water and serve in a red wine glass over ice, garnished with a lime slice and mint sprig.

Simple Syrup

• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup sugar

Combine water and sugar in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Cool and reserve in refrigerator for up to a month.

Copyright © 2009, Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger, www.ciudad-la.com