This low-cal spritzer really pops with the addition of fresh grated ginger.  Try it out as a flavorful alternative to a vodka or gin and tonic.

Ingredients:

• 2 shots white rum (or substitute your favorite vodka or gin)
• 1/2 can seltzer water
• 1 handful fresh mint
• Crushed ice
• 1 tsp splenda*
• 1 tsp fresh grated ginger
• Juice of half a lemon

Directions:

1. Add your crushed ice to a glass as well as your mint, ginger, lemon juice and sweetener of your choice.  
2. If you have a muddler, use it to bruise the mint and really bring the flavors out.  The crushed ice is key here as it acts as an abrasive to help break everything up.  If you don’t have a muddler, simply use the handle of a wooden spoon.
3. Add in your rum, a bit more crushed ice and top off with seltzer.  Ahh!!!  Very refreshing.

Tips:

• you want to use splenda or something similar as sugar wouldn’t dissolve in the cold liquid.  If you’re not a fan of sugar substitutes, you could always make a simple syrup and add that to the drink
• Making a simple syrup is just that – simple.  Combine equal parts sugar and water 1 cup sugar, to 1 cup water and add to a small sauce pan.  Bring mixture to a boil.  Once all the sugar has dissolved into the water, remove from heat and allow to cool before adding to your drink.