Cocktail Time: Fresh Strawberry Mint Sparklers

You know what? Some Mondays are great and can start your week out on a really good foot. Other Mondays call for cocktails.

Yesterday was one of those Mondays.

After coming back from a very relaxing long weekend with my family in Rhode Island (more on that later this week), Monday showed up and my first day back at work really kicked my butt.

In fact, I could have used one of these cocktails after work (or possibly even during the workday). My sister Emma and I made this pretty pink summer drink this weekend and they were perfect for sipping on the porch and while making dinner. It would also be a perfect drink to serve at your 4th of July BBQ this week!

They're not too sweet and have a super fresh taste courtesy of the fresh mint leaves. This cocktail would be delicious with any kind of berry and you could also swap in basil leaves for mint for a super fresh and slightly different flavor too.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups strawberries, sliced in half with stems removed (divided)
• 15 fresh mint leaves
• 1 Tbs. confectioners sugar
• 1 1/2 cups strawberry vodka
• 1 Liter club soda
•  Ice, for serving

In the bottom of a large pitcher, combine 1 cup strawberries, mint leaves, and sugar. Using a muddler, press and twist into the ingredients together until fruit is well mashed and mint leaves are bruised.

Pour in vodka and club soda and stir to combine with strawberry mixture.

Cut the remaining 1/2 cup strawberries into thin slices and stir into cocktail pitcher. Serve cold over ice.