This Strawberry Mojito Mocktail is the ultimate refreshing drink. It captures the essential bright flavor of a classic mojito, fresh mint and tangy lime, but blends it with sweet, juicy strawberries and bubbly lime sparkling water.
This recipe relies on muddling to release the oils and juices, ensuring every sip is packed with fresh flavor. It’s the perfect non-alcoholic option for entertaining or for a simple afternoon treat.
Why This Mocktail is a Must-Muddle
Intense Fresh Flavor: We use fresh mint, strawberries, and lime juice. Therefore, the muddled mixture forms a robust, natural syrup base.
Visually Stunning: Layering the fresh lime and strawberry slices in the ice makes this drink incredibly beautiful. Furthermore, it’s a perfect showstopper for any gathering.
Easy to Scale: While this recipe is for one serving, it’s very simple to multiply the quantities and make a large pitcher for a party.
Key Ingredients for Maximum Flavor
The secret to a great mojito (even a mocktail) is using fresh ingredients and ensuring the bubbles are crisp.
Fresh Mint and Lime: Use fresh, bright green mint leaves. Crucially, use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best tangy flavor, not bottled juice.
Strawberries: We use a combination of whole strawberries (for the muddled base) and sliced strawberries (for layering and garnish).
Lime Sparkling Water: Use an ice-cold, good-quality lime-flavored sparkling water or club soda. Alternatively, use plain club soda and add an extra splash of lime juice.
Strawberry Flavored Syrup: A small amount of syrup enhances the sweetness and strawberry flavor. Specifically, it balances the tartness of the lime and the fresh fruit.
How to Assemble Your Layered Mojito Mocktail
Muddling is the key to releasing the aromas. If you don’t have a muddler, the back of a wooden spoon works perfectly!
Muddle the Base: In your serving glass, place the fresh strawberries, lime juice, and mint leaves. Gently press (or muddle) the ingredients 3-5 times. This releases the flavorful oils and juices without pulverizing the leaves.
Add Syrup: Pour the strawberry flavored syrup over the muddled ingredients and mix briefly.
Layer the Ice and Fruit: Add half of the ice to the glass. Then, press the lime slices, sliced strawberries, and mint leaves against the inside of the glass. Add the remaining ice to secure the layers.
Top with Bubbles: Pour the lime-flavored sparkling water over the ice until the glass is full.
Garnish and Serve: Finally, garnish the rim with a whole strawberry, a slice of lime, and a sprig of mint leaves. Serve immediately.
Strawberry Mojito Mocktail FAQs
Q: Can I skip the syrup? A: Yes, you can. However, you may need to add a teaspoon of granulated sugar or simple syrup to the muddled ingredients to balance the tartness of the lime.
Q: What is the best way to muddle mint? A: Only press gently! Therefore, avoid smashing the mint, as this releases chlorophyll, which gives the drink a bitter, grassy taste. A gentle twist is all you need.
Strawberry Mojito Mocktail
Ingredients
Method
- In a glass, combine the cut up strawberries, lime juice, and 6-8 mint leaves. Gently muddle 3-5 times.
- Add strawberry syrup and mix briefly.
- Add half of the ice. Place lime and strawberry slices and a few mint leaves against the glass. Add remaining ice.
- Pour the lime sparkling water over the ice.
- Garnish with a strawberry, lime slice, and mint sprig. Serve immediately.
