Mojito Fresco

By GratefulSea

The Mojito, one of the most popular Cuban cocktail's combination of sweetness, citrus, and refreshing mint is the best way to fend off the summer heat wave.

Ingredients

• 2 large limes, cut into pieces
• 2 cups water
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup light rum
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
• Ice cubes
• Quartered limes and/or mint leaves

Preparation

Step 1

In a blender combine lime pieces, 2 cups water, and 2/3 cup sugar. Cover and blend about 30 seconds or until limes are chopped; do not puree. Strain through a sieve into a large pitcher. Mix in 2 cups additional water. Cover and chill for 1 to 12 hours.

Stir rum into lime mixture. Moisten the rims of 8 glasses with the reserved lime piece; dip rims in sugar. Divide mint among glasses. Use a wooden spoon to press mint into the bottom of each glass; press firmly to release flavor. Fill glasses with ice cubes. Pour chilled lime mixture over ice and mint leaves. If desired, add extra quartered limes and/or mint leaves.