Grilled Pineapple Virgin Mojito with Fresh Mint and Lime

Grill the pineapple rings 2 minutes per side until caramelized and lightly charred; dice and reserve a little for garnish.

Serves 2

Ingredients

• 2 fresh pineapple rings
• 12 fresh mint leaves, plus sprigs to garnish
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon cane sugar or simple syrup
• 1 cup sparkling water or club soda
• Crushed ice
• 2 lime wheels, to garnish

Instructions

1. Grill the pineapple rings 2 minutes per side until caramelized and lightly charred; dice and reserve a little for garnish.
2. In a sturdy glass or shaker, gently muddle the mint leaves with the lime juice and cane sugar to release the oils without shredding.
3. Add the grilled pineapple and muddle lightly to break it down.
4. Fill two glasses with crushed ice and divide the pineapple-mint mixture between them.
5. Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
6. Garnish with lime wheels, mint sprigs and the reserved grilled pineapple.
7. The mojito is Cuba's most famous refresher, built on muddled mint and lime. Dropping the rum and grilling the pineapple keeps all the bright, herbaceous spirit of the original while adding cookout smoke - a cooling, alcohol-free option so everyone at the summer grill can raise a glass.

Nutrition (estimated, per serving)

• Calories: 90 kcal
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 15mg