Nothing screams SUMMER Like A Mojito

To me a mojito is the perfect summer drink - light and refreshing with a touch of lime and fresh mint. Unfortunately, the traditional way to make this drink is to use a simple syrup which makes this drink full of sugar. Too much sugar in one's diet can contribute to a whole host of problems - weight gain, cravings for more sugar, depression, fatigue and hormone imbalance, just to name a few. To make it possible to still enjoy a mojito without the added sugar, I created my own sugar free version that uses a natural, plant based sweetener called stevia. Stevia is available at most grocery stores, health food markets and online. I prefer pure SweetLeaf stevia from Wisdom foods that is available in packets as well as liquid, which is what I use in this recipe.

One thing to remember if you choose to add alcohol to this drink (it is still perfectly delicious and refreshing without the rum) is to have some safe snacks nearby, like nuts, veggies, hummus and guacamole as alcohol can trigger cravings in some people and make them more likely to scarf down something they may regret later. Always remember, too, to drink responsibly. The recipe below is for a pitcher of mojitos, which makes six drinks. It can be made just before your guests arrive and they can serve themselves. Pick up some fun glasses and get your summer party started - cheers!

Pitcher of Mojitos

• Juice of 3 limes
• A big handful of fresh mint
• 6 shots of white rum (optional)
• 2 droppers liquid stevia ( I use SweetLeaf stevia from Wisdom Foods)
• 1 liter lime seltzer
• ice

In a glass pitcher crush mint, lime juice, rum and stevia with a long spoon or muddler (click here to see a muddler). Add ice and selter and garnish with a lime wedge if desired.

Image credit to Wikipedia