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Mojitos are a traditional Cuban cocktail and are made with only 5 ingredients: mint leaves, limes, white rum, sugar, and club soda. The combination of these creates a truly unique and refreshing experience which is perfect for entertaining poolside and for summer gatherings.

Photo Credit: Cerulean Bay

We had our first mojito back in June 2013 when we went to one of our most favorite places, Miami Beach. When we go, we stay just north of Ocean Drive, just far enough away from the craziness of South Beach but close enough to walk to it if we want to sip a few cocktails while people-watching.

There was this very cool Cuban bar there at the time and the bartender shared his special recipe with us. He said many people use simple syrup as a sweetener but insisted that granulated white sugar is the best because of the light texture is leaves behind. He was right!

How To Keep Mint Fresh!

Edna came up with a cheap yet ingenious way to make mint last so much longer in the fridge. Whether you grow your own or you buy it at the grocery store, fresh mint simply does not last more than a 2 or 3 days in the fridge. It wilts quickly and starts to turn black. Not good for a cocktail which is so refreshing both in taste and to look at!

So here is what you can do: If you don’t already have one at home, get a produce bag next time you are at the store. They are those super lightweight plastic bags in the produce department.

Photo Credit: Cerulean Bay

Add about an inch of water in a short drinking glass and place the mint in the glass. Take the produce bag and place it over the mint. While leaving enough room to not crowd the leaves, gather up the excess of the bag and tie a knot in it. Then place the whole thing in the fridge. When we do this, the glass fits in the door of our fridge.

Photo Credit: Cerulean Bay

We have found that mint will stay fresh for up to 10 days if you change the water once or twice during this time. You can also use this tip to extend the life of several other fresh herbs such as cilantro and parsley as well!

When entertaining with friends and family, you will need a pitcher of mojitos ready to serve. We recommend preparing the pitcher ahead of time for easier serving when your guests are ready.

Photo Credit: Cerulean Bay

For a single drink

In a tall cocktail glass, add:

• 2 or 3 quartered pieces of a medium to large lime

With a cocktail muddler, crush the limes well to release the juice. If you don’t have a muddler, then use the handle end of a wooden spoon. We have this muddler and we love it. It is sturdy and is a great addition to our bar! It also comes with a long bar spoon which is great for mixing as instructed below!

Then add:

• Several fresh mint leaves (anywhere from 5 to 10)
• 2 tsp granulated sugar, or to taste
• 2 oz light rum

With the muddler, press the mint leaves to release their oils while stirring the sugar and rum into the crushed limes. Try not to shred the mint leaves.

Fill the glass with cubed ice and then fill with club soda. Using a cocktail stirrer or a long spoon, gently stir to mix, bringing the mint and limes up into the ice. Garnish with a slice of lime and a mint leaf or two.