Fresh mint and lime are the keys to this traditional drink’s refreshing flavor.

1/3–2/3 cup sugar
6–10 mint leaves
Ice cubes
2 1/2 cups white rum
1 1/4 cups fresh lime juice (5 large limes)
1 1/2 cups club soda or lemon-lime carbonated beverage
Sweet vermouth (optional)
Mint sprigs
Lime wedges

1. In a small bowl combine sugar and mint leaves; crush leaves with the back of a wooden spoon. Remove bruised mint and rub on rim of ten 8-ounce glasses. Add ice to glasses; set aside.

2. In a pitcher combine the sugar, rum, and lime juice; stir until sugar is dissolved. Pour into glasses; add club soda or carbonated beverage to fill. If desired, add a splash of vermouth to each glass. Garnish with mint sprigs and lime wedges. Makes 10 servings.

Per serving: 161 cal., 0 g fat (0 g sat. fat), 0 mg chol., 11 mg sodium, 9 g carbo., 0 g fiber, 0 g pro.