Gluten Free Classic Nojito
Fresh mint, bright lime, and a quick homemade simple syrup come together in a mocktail that feels genuinely festive without a drop of alcohol. The muddling step is where the magic happens — pressing and twisting the mint releases its essential oils, turning the liquid a gorgeous pale green and filling your kitchen with the most refreshing scent. Because every ingredient here is naturally free of gluten, there's no label-reading required and no concern about hidden grain-based additives sneaking into your glass. The homemade syrup takes only a couple of minutes on the stove and is far cleaner than store-bought mixers, which can sometimes contain surprising thickeners or flavorings. A gentle stir at the end keeps the sparkling water lively, so every sip has that satisfying fizz. Serve it immediately over ice with a lime wheel and a sprig of mint for a drink that looks like it came from a proper cocktail bar.
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Learn more →Ingredients
2 servings
For the simple syrup
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
For the drinks
- 16 fresh mint leaves, plus 2 sprigs for garnish
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)
- 2 cups sparkling water, chilled
- 2 cups ice cubes
For serving
- 2 lime wheels or wedges (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved, about 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool for 5 minutes — the syrup should be clear and slightly thickened.
- 2
Divide the mint leaves evenly between two tall glasses. Add half the lime juice and half the simple syrup to each glass. Muddle firmly with a cocktail muddler or the handle of a wooden spoon, pressing and twisting 8–10 times until the mint is bruised and fragrant and the liquid turns pale green.
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