This is a straightforward homemade version of the classic Mojito — fresh mint, tangy lime, white rum, and a fizzy splash of club soda. It’s easy, fast, and perfect when you need a refreshing drink without fuss.

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Quick Summary

Prep time: 10 mins
Cook time: 0 mins
Flavor: bright, minty, citrusy, fizzy
Great for: warm evenings, casual get‑togethers, budget‑friendly cocktails

Why I Like This Recipe

I wasn’t planning on mixing drinks tonight, but I had mint and a lime begging for some action. Threw it all together and—surprisingly?—it felt like a mini vacation in my glass. It’s one of those “why not” recipes that keeps me coming back.

Ingredients

5 mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
2 oz white rum
1 oz fresh lime juice
½ oz simple syrup (equal parts sugar + water, dissolved)
Ice
Club soda or sparkling water (to top)
Lime slice, for garnish

How To Make Mojito Drink

Lightly muddle the mint in a cocktail shaker — just until you get that fresh minty aroma.
Add rum, lime juice, simple syrup, and a handful of ice. Shake once or twice — no need to go full barista.
Strain into a glass with ice. Top with a splash of club soda.
Garnish with lime and extra mint. Sip slowly? Or not.

Tips for Success

Don’t pulverize the mint — just a gentle press is enough to avoid bitterness.
Use fresh lime juice — bottled just doesn’t hit the same.
Chill your glass ahead if you remember (or don’t — it still works).
Adjust syrup to taste if you like it sweeter.
If you like a stronger fizz, use sparkling water instead of club soda.

Storage and Reheating

Not much to store here, but:
Make‑ahead simple syrup: keep it in a jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks (but it usually disappears faster).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I skip the rum?
A: Totally — make it a “virgin mojito” by just skipping alcohol and adding a touch more soda.
Q: Can I use honey or agave instead of simple syrup?
A: Sure, but they’ll ping the flavor a bit. Stir until it dissolves.
Q: Why muddle mint and not blend?
A: Blending turns everything into green slush. Light press = crisp mint flavor without weird sediments.
Q: What if I don’t have a cocktail shaker?
A: Any jar with a lid works — just shake carefully and pour through a strainer or spoon.
Q: Can I prep this for a party?
A: Kind of — mix syrup, lime, and rum ahead, then muddle mint and add soda when serving.

Common Mistakes and How to Dodge Them

Muddling too hard: That can make the mint bitter. Just bruise the leaves, don’t pulverize.
Using bottled lime juice: It tastes flat. Bite into a fresh one if you can.
Skipping ice chill: Room‑temp drink? No thanks. At least cool your glass.
Overfilling with soda: Dilution city. Start small and top slowly.
Ignoring garnish: It’s optional, but that mint sprig + lime slice makes it feel kinda fancy without effort.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 180 kcal
Total Fat: 0 g
Saturated Fat: 0 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 5 mg
Potassium: 40 mg
Total Carbohydrate: 15 g
Dietary Fiber: 0 g
Sugars: 14 g
Protein: 0 g