The warmth of the sun is calling me outside more and more these days, and I love it. Soon enough, though, it will be summer, and we’ll be sweating profusely, looking for relief. And when I need some refreshment, few drinks hit the spot for me like a “Nojito.” This is a non-alcoholic take on the classic mojito cocktail that’s easy to make and absolutely restorative. And this is my favorite virgin mojito recipe.
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From what I’ve read, the origins of the mojito can be traced back to Cuba. It could be as far back as the late 1500s, using sugarcane juice (guarapo) as a primary ingredient. Some think people working in the Cuban sugarcane fields concocted a similar beverage to curb disease. Mint has a cooling effect, as well as relieves headaches and colds and soothes gastric problems. I use mint several times a week throughout the summer, and it makes everything better.
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While we can only guess at the origins of the mojito now, I’ll happily claim this non-alcoholic version. I first made it last year for a dinner party, and it’s been a frequent favorite ever since. And it goes great with some simple barbecued chicken.
I’m not a drinker, but I love to learn from how mixology uses flavor – mint and lime being two of my favorites. I also love the use of tonic water in this drink instead of Sprite. Either works great, but the tonic water brings something a little more interesting with its natural bitterness. I added in some honey and cucumber to really make it “summer,” and I think you’ll love this virgin mojito recipe.
Cucumber Honey “Nojito” (Virgin Mojito)
Ingredients:
- 4 slices cucumber
- 4-5 leaves fresh mint plus a little more to garnish
- 2 tsp honey
- 1 wedge fresh lime
- 1 cup ice
- 1.5-2 tbsp simple syrup
- 10-12 oz tonic water
Alternate
- Sprite this can be used in place of simple syrup and tonic water if desired.
Directions:
- To a tall glass, add the cucumber, mint, honey, and lime wedge.Using a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon, gently muddle (press and mix) the mix, being careful not to break the mint up into too small of pieces.
- Add the ice, simple syrup, and tonic water, and mix with a long spoon. Enjoy!
But have you creami-fied it??
What could I use to substitute the simple syrup. I’m on a paleo diet. Thanks!!
You could use a raw honey simple syrup and it would be delicious. Try 1 part honey to 1 part warm water.
Thanks for a great recipe since I can’t have alcohol due to medications I take. I also can’t have tonic water. What do you think of using ginger beer?
Ginger beer would be really tasty, for sure! That or Sprite, club soda or sparkling mineral water. All would be fine.