This virgin mojito recipe is a non-alcoholic version of one of the most refreshing summer cocktails in existence. It's just as good without the alcohol!
Don't you want to take a sip?
What is a Mojito?
The mojito is a traditional Cuban cocktail and is one of the most refreshing beverages that will ever pass your lips. The traditional version includes muddled mint leaves, lime, white rum, simple syrup, and club soda all served over ice. This virgin mojito recipe keeps all of those delicious flavors intact without the alcohol, transforming this super fun drink into a family-friendly treat.
Do I Need Any Special Equipment?
You will need something to mash the mint leaves in the glass to release the oils into the drink. A tool called a muddler is typically used for this, but if you don't have one the handle of a wooden spoon will get the job done just as well.
You will also need a sturdy glass that can withstand the muddling process, so shy away from thin-walled glassware. A Collins or highball glass is typically used for mojitos, though you can use shorter glasses - like a rocks glass - as well (you will need to reduce the amount of ingredients per drink to make it fit, however).
A surefire way to beat the heat.
Can I Use Bottled Lime Juice?
Yes, you can, but make sure that it is 100% fresh lime juice that's not from concentrate and that doesn't include any additional additives. Doing that will ensure you're getting the freshest lime flavor in your finished mojito. Personally, I use Santa Cruz organic lime juice that I can find at my regular ol' grocery store and it works great (psst... I use it for margaritas, too). Skip the stuff in the plastic lime - you'll be glad you did.
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How Do I Make Simple Syrup?
Oh it's so easy! Really, you don't even need a recipe. Here's how to make it: Mix one cup water and one cup white sugar in a small pan and bring it to a low boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes or so until the sugar is completely dissolved. Let it cool - it will thicken up nicely - and store in a mason jar in the fridge for a month (though it'll likely last a bit longer than that). Spoon it out and use as needed.
Why Use Syrup Instead Of Regular Sugar?
The answer to this is, well, simple. Simple syrup is easier to incorporate into a beverage without needing to worry about sugar crystals that need to be fully dissolved. Simple syrup is plug and play: pour, stir, and you're done.
Yum for the whole family!
Can I Use Tonic or Seltzer Water Instead Of Club Soda?
Though it may seem like these three liquids are interchangeable, they have distinct differences. Club soda has been artificially infused with carbon and mineral salts. Seltzer water is water that has been artificially carbonated but it doesn't have any of the added ingredients of club soda. Tonic water, however, is its own animal. Tonic has a bitter flavor that comes from the addition to quinine (which is why it works so well paired with gin). Tonic will also add additional calories to beverages (it contains additional sugar) at 65 calories per 6 ounces.
So if you need to substitute the club soda, reach for the seltzer water instead of tonic. The differences in flavor from the carbon and mineral salts is minor and most people will be unable to tell the difference in a pinch.
Can I Make Mojitos In Advance?
Unfortunately, no. This is a mocktail that is best enjoyed right after you make it, since it contains carbonation that will quickly go flat after adding to the drink.
I know you will absolutely love this non-alcoholic mojito recipe as a killer refresher during the warm months. Enjoy, and please leave me a comment and let me know what you think of this recipe!
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Virgin Mojito Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: N/A
- Total Time: 5 mins
- Yield: 1 drink 1x
Description
A fresh, summery mocktail made with real mint leaves and lime juice - just as good as the alcoholic version!
Ingredients
- 6 fresh mint leaves
- Ice
- 3 ounces fresh lime juice (6 tablespoons)
- 1.5 ounces simple syrup (3 tablespoons)
- 2 ounces club soda (4 tablespoons)
- 1 lime wedge, plus more for garnish if desired
Instructions
- Place mint leaves into a tall glass such as a Collins or highball. Squeeze the juice out of the lime wedge and drop the whole wedge into the glass.
- Use a muddler or the handle of a wooden spoon to muddle the mint leaves with the lime to release the oils in the mint. Be patient and do this for several minutes to get the most mint flavor in the drink.
- Fill the glass about half full with ice. Add the lime juice and simple syrup and stir.
- Top with club soda and serve garnished with additional lime if desired.
- Category: Drinks
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