And of course, my beach vacation included beachy cocktails

Mojitos à la Bodeguita del Medio in Havana, Cuba
Fresh Mint Sprigs
1 oz. Lime juice
2 oz. Light rum
¾ oz. Simple syrup (see how to make simple syrup below)


Crush the mint sprigs at the bottom of a chilled highball glass. Fill the glass with crushed ice cubes. Add the simple syrup, lime juice, and rum and stir. I have found that a splash of Perrier (as it is lime-flavoured) is a nice addition to finish the cocktail off.

Simple Syrup
½ cup water
½ cup sugar

Stir together in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, remove from heat, and wait until sugar is completely dissolved. Chill.