Xanthan Gum 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 beautiful pale green and filling your kitchen with the most refreshing scent. Because everything here is built from scratch with whole, recognizable ingredients, there's zero need to scan labels for hidden additives or thickeners that can sneak into store-bought mixers and syrups. The homemade simple syrup takes just a couple of minutes on the stovetop, and once it cools, you're basically ready to assemble. A gentle stir after adding the sparkling water keeps those bubbles lively, so every sip has that satisfying fizz. 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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