Blackberry Mojito

The past few days have been picture perfect.  Bright sun shining, a light breeze rustling the trees and temps reaching the mid 70’s.  The kind of weather we’ve been looking forward to for quite some time.  The type of weather that makes you want to grab a drink, slip on those flip flops, and got outside to soak up some of that sun.  Simply perfect.

Yesterday, today and this weekend.  Well, the weather isn’t quite as perfect.  Strong winds, severe rain and warnings all over the state.  This weather has me longing for the sunshine and a cool drink in my hand.  A mojito to be more specific.

Mojitos are one of my favorite cocktails ever.  Such a simple cocktail.  Basic ingredients.  But it just works.  Works to make a delicious and refreshing cocktail.  Plus, it’s makes for quite a pretty presentation with the fresh mint, lime wedges,and bubbly soda.

Since I need to incorporate a little color and cheer into my cocktail to overcome the dreary day, and since I just happened to have some fresh berries on hand.  Aside from enjoying fresh fruit as a snack, I love  having fresh fruit on hand to incorporate in my cocktails.

Anyway.  I had fresh berries on hand and those blackberries were calling my name.  I quickly grabbed a handful and added them to the mix.  They paired wonderfully with the tart lime, fresh mint and bubbly soda. and they also added a pop of color to make this cocktail that much more appealing.

This drink will have you chasing those rainy day blues away in no time.

TGIF and Cheers!

Blackberry Mojito

Yields: 2 Cocktails

*Note: I pureed the blackberries, but did not strain the mixture before adding it to the cocktail mixture.  The seeds didn’t bother me, but if you want a smoother cocktail then strain the blackberry mixture before adding it to the cocktail.


Ingredients:


1 Cup fresh blackberries
1 Tsp water
Juice of 2 1/4 limes
Zest of 1/4 lime
1/4 Cup loosely packed mint leaves
3 Tsp sugar
3 Oz clear rum, divided
6 Oz club soda, or sprite if making a mocktail, divided

Directions:


Place blackberries and eater in a blender and, puree until smooth.

In a cocktail shaker combine mint leaves, sugar and lime juice from 1/4 lime.  Using a muddler, firmly press the ingredients to muddle or mash them together.  Add the remaining lime juice, zest and blackberry puree.  Place the lid on the shaker and vigorously shake to incorporate.

Fill two large glasses with ice, equal amounts of rum and club soda.  Divide the blackberry mixture evenly between the two glasses.  Gently stir, garnish with additional blackberries and a lime wedge and enjoy.

Recipe source: A Lynsey original