A&M: Tart and refreshing, this limeade is a perfect drink for getting into the spirit of spring. Vvvanessa said, “I love minty drinks when the weather starts to warm up. Add in some zippy citrus and bubbles, and I couldn’t be more refreshed.” The mint syrup is intensely flavored, so you don’t need much, and vvvanessa applies a particularly light touch with this one sweet element—which we also found made for an invigorating drink. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, just add a little more of the mint syrup.
1 cup sugar
1 cup lightly packed fresh mint leaves, washed
1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
1 to 2 liters club soda
Mint leaves or lime wedges, for garnish
TIPS AND TECHNIQUES
Simple and lovely in its pure form, this recipe would make a great jumping-off point for all sorts of riffs. If you’re so inclined, try adding a splash of vodka or light rum.
BigBear: “This is so good. We make up the syrup and freeze it in ice cube trays. It’s perfect—so refreshing and instantly available when using the syrup cubes.”
ABOUT THE COOK
Vanessa Vichit-Vadakan is a bartender based in Brooklyn, New York.
Her favorite recipe from a cookbook: “Fudgy Brownies from The King Arthur Flour Cookie Companion.”
Her favorite cooking tip: “Measuring spoons and measuring cups are much easier to use if they’re taken off that little ring that holds them together. There’s a lot less fumbling, and you only have to wash the one spoon or cup you used without dragging all the others along for the ride.”
Here’s her blog: The Beet Goes On (www.thebeetgoeson.blogspot.com).
WHAT THE COMMUNITY SAID
marzipanmarcia: “This is definitely going to become my summer standby beverage … but vodka might find its way in, too!”