Faux-Jito (Non-Alcoholic Mojito)

Skip the rum without skipping the fun! This refreshing Faux-Jito is a bright, bubbly, alcohol-free twist on the classic mojito. Made with fresh mint, zesty lime, sparkling water, and just a touch of sweetness, it’s an easy way to turn fresh ingredients into something special.

WHAT’S NEW?

We’re 2 weeks from school being back in session for the girls and 3 weeks for this mama! Summer has flown by, per usual, and weekends that are abysmal weather-wise put a serious damper on my fun. I was TRYING to look forward to the weekend, but the weather truly robbed us of an entire weekend. And of course, we had guests and so that’s especially sad for all involved.

As we were sitting around on Saturday, willing the sun to flirt with the day and the rain to stop falling, I whipped up some of these Faux-Jitos. Some fresh lime and muddled mint can put a smile on anyone’s face, if only for a brief period of time. We eventually made it to the pool for a few minutes before the rain resumed, but it was short-lived to say the least. Next weekend, I’m hoping for all the summer fun with all of the non-alcoholic mojito goodness! C’mon, Michigan summer…we can do it!

ROLL CALL FOR THIS RECIPE

• Sober Friends: Even if you choose drink alcohol, a virgin mojito is a great alternative!
• Entertainers: Guests will love minty mojito mocktail and you can also add white rum for a traditional mojito. The drinks are beautiful and offer that “wow” effect!
• Refreshingly Simple: With just a few simple ingredients, these are quick to whip up- total time is 5 minutes or less!

KEY INGREDIENTS AND SUBSTITUTIONS

• Limes: Fresh limes are traditional, however lemon or grapefruit can offer a unique twist on citrus flavors.
• Simple syrup: Available in stores and anywhere liquor is sold, this is a 1:1 mix of sugar and water. Feel free to use honey, agave, or maple syrup as a substitute. 
• Mint: Fresh mint leaves are a must-have in a mojito of any kind. The mint sprigs are fun garnish, as well.
• Club soda: A traditional soda water works great, however a coconut and lime variety truly elevates the mocktail

NUTRITIONAL MERITS

• Naturally fat-free, sodium-free
• Gluten-free, dairy-free
• Under 50 calories per serving
• Caffeine-free and non-alcoholic

FAQ

I try to avoid sugar. How can I tweak this recipe?

Use liquid stevia or monk fruit extract, to taste, in place of the simple syrup.

What does it mean to “muddle” mint?

Muddling means to crush, press, or grind the lime, herb, and sugar together at the bottom or sides of a glass to release juices and oils. A wooden spoon works great to muddle. It creates a fragrant, flavorful beverage with no cocktail shaker required.

How do you make simple syrup?

​Combine equal parts granulated sugar and water in a small sauce pan over medium heat

​Any other flavor combinations you can recommend for fresh, new mocktails to try?

The sky is the limit! Blackberry-basil, raspberry-mint, strawberry mint, peach-apple….yum!

VARIATIONS, STORAGE, and TIPS

• These mocktails are very subtly sweet – add more or less sweetener to your liking
• Mojitos are best made just before serving for peak freshness and effervescence from the sparkling water, however you can cut your lime wedges and clean your mint before hand
• Use lots of ice cubes – fun ice cube shapes are always a great thing to try!
• Be sure to add the sparkling water last before giving a quick stir and serving.
• A white rum can be added to the finished mocktail for those looking to imbibe

Love a fun drink? Who doesn’t!?

• Rosemary Ginger Coconut Water Mocktail
• Hugo Spritz
• Apple Cider Mocktail
• Cranberry Gin Mule Cocktail
• Blueberry Mocktail
• Rose Sangria with Apple and Berries

Be well,