Mojito

The first step to a good mojito is muddling. Muddling is just mashing ingredients in the bottom of a cocktail glass to help release their flavors. In the case of this classic mojito recipe, you start by squeezing the juice from two lime wedges into the bottom of a highball glass (though your favorite cocktail glass will do just fine). Add the wedges and 2 teaspoons sugar, and muddle with a cocktail muddler. Fill the glass with ice. Editor’s Tip: Don’t have a muddler? A small wooden spoon or the tip of a wooden spoon’s handle will do the job just as well.

Next, grab some fresh mint leaves, and either firmly slap the mint or press them with the side of a wooden spoon or muddler. This releases all that refreshing flavor. Arrange the mint so it’s pressed against the sides of the glass. Editor’s Tip: Be sure to only use the leaves from the mint and not the stems. The stems can be bitter, and that’s not a flavor you want in your mojito.

Pour the rum and club soda into the glass. Use a long spoon to give this a quick stir. If desired, finish it off with mint and a lime wedge to garnish. Editor's Tip: I think this cocktail is best sipped outside—next to a pool or on the beach is best. It’s a great match for these cold finger foods, too.