Lightened Up Mojitos

Today I'm going to show you how I made a lightened up Mojito.

Kyle and I's tropical retreat to Mexico was at an all-inclusive resort. The drinks were included and we saw some serious indulgers.  I'm not a huge liquor drinker.  I'm more a of wine girl, however floating around in a pool with a wine glass? Suspect.  My pool beverage of choice was the Mojito.  Light, refreshing, and not too strong. The only bad part about the mojito was all the sugar.  Mucho azucar.  

As part of the FoodBuzz Tastemaker program I was sent some Sweet 'n Low to try and create a cool summer beverage.

I created a lower-sugar version of a classic mojito using the Sweet 'n Low.  The artificial sweetener debate is hot, ever changing, and controversial. The US Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics officially lists artificial sweeteners as safe for moderate use. I don't use them frequently, however when I do it's typically Sweet 'n Low.  I like the sweetness it brings to a cold beverage.

To lighten up your next Mojito try this recipe:

Lightened Up Mojito
Ingredients:

1-2 oz White Rum

1 small bunch of fresh mine

2-3 Lime Wedges

1-3 packages of Sweet 'n Low

1/8 Cup Crushed Ice

Club Soda (if needed)

Directions:

1. Squeeze lime wedges and place them in the shaker along with ice, mint leaves, rum, and sweet 'n low.
2. Mash all the ingredients together in a stainless steel drink shaker. 
3. Shake to mix and add the club soda to fill. 
4. Place the shaker cap back on the shaker and pour over ice in a large glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge and an extra mint leaf.

Now all you have to do is imagine you're at a tropical resort!!

Love and Havana lights,

Carissa & Kyle