Grapefruit Mint Cocktail

It has been a scorcher this past week here in Vancouver. The combination of the blazing heat plus a hectic week of work and side-projects puts me in a desperate need for a drink… or three. If you can relate, or are just trying to beat the heat, try out my new favourite summer drink- the Grapefruit-Mint Cocktail. This refreshing, sweet and sour cocktail will cheerfully mark the start of your weekend.

Servings: 1 cocktail

Difficulty: Easy

Prep Time:  5 minutes   |   Cook Time: 10 minutes   |   Total Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
• 1/2 oz. mint syrup (recipe below)
• 1 oz. vodka (or more, depending on your day)
• 1 cup crushed ice
• Sprig of mint, for garnish

Mint Syrup (makes enough for 4 drinks):

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup mint, chopped

Directions:

Begin by preparing the mint syrup. In a small pot, add the water and sugar and bring to a boil. Swirl the mixture around rather than stirring as this prevents crystals from forming. Let the mixture boil for 2-3 minutes and swirl occasionally, until the majority of the water evaporates and you are left with a thick syrup. Add the chopped mint and remove from the heat to cool completely.

Crush the ice in a blender and spoon into glasses. Combine the cup of grapefruit juice, 1 oz. vodka, and 1/2 oz. of cooled syrup in a cocktail shaker with a few cubes of ice and shake to combine. Strain and pour over the crushed ice, garnish with a sprig of mint and enjoy!