Turkey Free Classic Nojito
Fresh mint, bright lime, and a homemade simple syrup come together in a drink that feels genuinely celebratory without a drop of alcohol in sight. The secret to getting that signature mojito depth is in the muddling — pressing and twisting the mint leaves releases their essential oils and turns the liquid a gorgeous pale green that looks as good as it tastes. Making your own simple syrup takes just two minutes on the stovetop and means you control the sweetness, no mystery additives or artificial flavors involved. Chilled sparkling water goes in last and gets only a gentle stir so those bubbles stay lively all the way to the first sip. It's the kind of mocktail that genuinely satisfies a crowd, whether you're hosting a summer gathering, a dry January night in, or just want something more interesting than plain water. Garnish with a mint sprig and a lime wheel and it looks like something you'd pay twelve dollars for at a rooftop 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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