Mint Condition

Styled by TAYLOR BENNETT
Photography by KELLY MOORE CLARK

Everything is Mint

It’s summer and that means that fresh mint is abundant and ready to be incorporated into dishes and drinks alike. But, no matter how ambitious of a cook you may be, it seems like fresh mint seems to wilt before its essential oils are gobbled up. We have gathered a few recipes to help you along the way.

Tip: Trim the ends of mint stems and place them in a small glass of water . Place a plastic bag around the top of the leaves (like a tent). Store the mint in the refrigerator to extend its shelflife. 

Watermelon Mint Salad

What you need:
4 cups watermelon, cubed
1 1/2 cups strawberries
1 1/2 cup raspberries
1 1/2 cups cherries, pitted

Dressing:
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 1/2 teaspoon lime zest
2 tablespoons agave syrup
1 tablespoon of fresh mint, chopped

Whisk dressing ingredients together. Place watermelon and berries in a large bowl and drizzle dressing over. Lightly toss and garnish with mint.

Mint Julep
This summer cocktail combines mint-infused simple syrup, bourbon and fresh herbs. Great for outdoor summer gatherings, it’s a perfectly crafted cocktail.

What you need:
Crushed ice
2 ounces bourbon
1/2 ounce mint simple syrup
Fresh lemon juice
Fresh mint, garnish
Mint Simple Syrup:
1 cup water
1 cup sugar
1 bunch fresh mint

To make the mint simple syrup, combine the water and sugar in a small saucepan and stir until sugar dissolves. Add the fresh mint, turn off heat and let steep for 15 minutes. Strain and chill.
Mix bourbon, mint simple syrup, lemon juice and serve over crushed ice. Garnish with fresh mint.

Minty Cubes

Looking for  an easy and creative way to use your garden mint? Prepare these tasty cubes and drop them in water, tea, or your favorite cocktail.

Directions:
Wash mint and drop a leaf in each ice cube tray. Fill the trays and freeze until completely set. Pop out and store in a freezer bag. Enjoy!