When it comes to warm weather, fresh and bubbly mint-lime sodas are a staple. That citrusy, minty effervescence is the perfect thirst quencher on those sweltering days under the sun. Make it a stylish mocktail or swirl in some white rum for some poolside mojito vibes.
Bring mint leaves, water, sugar, and 1 slice of lime to a boil in a small pot. Turn off the heat after 5 minutes and let stand (infuse) for 1 hour.
Strain the syrup, return it to the pot and simmer down to a syrup over medium-high heat, about 15 minutes.
Pour the syrup into a bottle and refrigerate. It will keep for months.
Drink with ice cold sparkling water, fresh mint, and lime slices. Add a splash of white rum to make it a mojito.
Notes
Infusing simple syrup, which is when you heat equal parts sugar with water, is the easiest way to make a natural soda at home. This recipe is great for spring or summer because of the fresh flavors of mint and lime, but you could also make a winter version of this drink using pomegranate or sage.