Savor some sweet and juicy peaches this summer with a recipe to showcase a favorite seasonal fruit. We consider a good drink an essential side for any barbecue. This one is perfect for outdoor gatherings or just kicking back on the porch, so you’ll want to make a whole batch of these peachy smokjitos.
YIELD: 4 SERVINGS • COOK TIME: 7 MINUTES
8 ripe peaches
1 tbsp (6 g) grated lime peel
1 cup (236 ml) fresh lime juice (about 4 large limes)
¾ cup (144 g) sugar
½ cup (14 g) packed mint leaves
4 cups (946 ml) lemon-lime soda, chilled
2 cups (473 ml) white rum
Crushed ice
Mint sprigs
Preheat your grill to medium-high at 350 to 400°F (177 to 204°C). Cut the peaches in half and place them on the grill, cut-side down. Grill them with the lid on for 5 to 7 minutes, until the peaches are lightly browned. Remove the peaches from the grill and cool for 10 minutes.
Remove the skin from 7 of the peaches and cut them into 1-inch (2.5-cm) pieces. Place them in a blender or food processor and process until smooth. Pour the peach purée through a strainer into a bowl and throw away the solids. Cut the remaining peach into wedges.
In a large pitcher, combine the lime peel, lime juice, sugar and mint leaves. Crush well using a muddler. Add the peach purée, lemon-lime soda and rum. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Fill the glasses with crushed ice and pour your peach mojito mixture over the ice. Garnish with mint sprigs and grilled peach wedges.