1 serving

For the simple syrup:
2 cups water
1 cup sugar

For the Mojito:
3 lime wedges
3 to 4 torn basil leaves, plus additional for garnish
1 oz simple syrup (see above)
Ice
2 oz vanilla falvored vodka, such as Stoli or absolut Vanilla
1 oz pineapple juice

FOR THE SIMPLE SYRUP: In a small saucepan, bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the sugar and cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved. Reduce the ehat to low and cook about 5 minutes, until slighlty thickened. Set aside and let cool to room temperature, then transfer to an air-tight contanier and refrigerate until throroughly chilled.

FOR THE MOJITO: Squeeze the juice from the lime wedges into a highball glass and drop the wedges in. Add the basil leaves and simple syrup and muddle until the basil is in pieces and the mixture is well comined. Fill the glass with ice cubes; add the vodka and pineapple juice. Combine the ingredients by placing the ottom of a cocktail shaker over the glass and shaking, or by stirring with an iced tea spoon. Garnish with a basil leaf.

PerServing: 196 calories; 0 g protein; 18 g carbs; 0 g fat; 0 mg cholesterol; 0 g sat. fat; 1 mg sodium; 0 g dietary fiber

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• The Sink or Swim
• Sugar and Spice Martini
• Sugar Plum Toddy