The Best of Summer Cocktails: The Strawberry Mojito

Summer. Mmm. The word is synonymous with glaring sunshine, roasting temperatures, bright blue pool water, and verdant greenery. Summer also means the time of year to relax on your back porch, cocktail in hand, while entertaining company or simply soaking in the sun.

The strawberry mojito is a slight twist on a great classic. Lime, mint, and rum come together to birth a drink that makes your taste buds boogie.

Let's get started.

First, you want some mint. With no room for a the enormous garden I dream of, I make do with potted herbs by my front step. I grow a little basil, some spearmint, and a few sprigs of rosemary. For one strawberry mojito, you simply need 2-3 sprigs of mint, be it peppermint or spearmint.

 

You are going to break off a few of those tender leaves and muddle them at the bottom of a clear glass. You can leave some left over for a garnish.

Next, combine 1.5 ounces of rum, 3/4 ounces lime juice, and 1/2 ounce simple syrup in a shaker. Of course, depending on your desired potency, you can always add some extra rum :). I have found that it is really important to have a lot of mint and lime juice to really get the refreshing mojito hit I want. Chop up 3-4 strawberries and toss them with ice over your mint. Then pour over your rum concoction. Lastly, fill the remainder of the glass with club soda and stir. And, ta-da! You have a strawberry mojito and some very happy taste buds.

:: Strawberry Mojito ::

- 1.5 ounces rum 

- 3-4 sprigs mint

- 3/4 ounce lime juice

- 1/2 ounce simple syrup

- club soda

- handful chopped strawberries

1) Muddle mint leaves at bottom of clear glass. Leave some left over for garnish if desired. Add ice and chopped strawberries.

2) Combine rum, lime juice, and simple syrup in shaker. Shake and pour over ice.

3) Fill remainder of glass with club soda and stir. Top with garnish. Enjoy at leisure.