Sparkling Mint Lime Cooler
Serving size: 1 cup, makes 10 cups

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups water
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/3 cup minced fresh mint
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh lime zest
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
• 2 quarts sparkling water, chilled
• Fresh mint sprigs
• Ice

Directions

1. In a small saucepan, combine the water and sugar; bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently.
2. Remove the pan from the heat; stir in the mint and lime zest. Let stand for 20 minutes. Strain the mint syrup mixture through a fine mesh sieve over a bowl and discard the solids.
3. Add the mint syrup to a large pitcher or party punch bowl. Add the lime juice and sparkling water and stir. Serve in cocktail glasses with ice and sprigs of mint.