Paper Palate

Chill out with the foods of summer seems to be the theme of the July/August issue of Vegetarian Times.  The magazine celebrates summer with cold soups, super salads and lots of choices for grilling and picnicking.

Having just returned from a vacation that included much drinking of both traditional and frozen margaritas, I was looking for other summer drink options.  The “quick veg lite” feature headlined “To Your Health! Lightened-up margaritas, mojitos and more” by Fiona Kennedy instantly appealed to me.

Kennedy offers four recipes (all vegan) relying on fresh fruit.  Each recipe comes in at a reasonable 120-209 calories per serving (as opposed to the typical 500 calorie margaritas I’ve been guzzling).   The article assures us that each of the recipes, Pomegranate-Raspberry Margaritas, Watermelon Slushies (for Grown-Ups), Pina Coladas and, my favorite, Ginger-Mint Mojitos, can be made without the alcohol for designated drivers, children or others who would prefer not to indulge.

The article also gives some directions for producing perfectly smooth smoothies and frozen drinks.  The trick is to blend ingredients for 10 seconds on low, then 10 seconds on high.

Here is Vegetarian Times’ recipe for Ginger-Mint Mojitos.  Each serving is 120 calories according to the nutritional data provided by the magazine.

Ginger-Mint Mojitos

Serves 4

2 limes

2/3 cup white rum

10 fresh mint sprigs, plus 4 extra for garnish

¼ cup sugar

2 Tbs. minced fresh ginger

2 cups club soda

Juice the limes and reserve juiced halves. Mash lime halves, juice, run, mints, sugar and ginger in bowl with spoon.  After 20 minutes, strain, discarding solids. Fill 4 glasses with ice, ½ cup of the rum-lime mixture and ½ cup of club soda. Garnish with mint springs. 

Photo Credit: Vegetarian Times