Absinthe Frappe

Ice, crushed and cubes

8 to 10 mint leaves, for muddling, plus a spring of mint for garnish

1½ ounces absinthe

¼ to ½ ounce simple syrup (see note)

2 ounces club soda

Fill a highball glass with crushed ice.

Muddle the mint leaves (to taste) gently at the bottom of a cocktail shaker. Add the absinthe and the simple syrup (to taste), then fill with ice cubes. Shake vigorously for 10 to 20 seconds, then strain into the glass. Top with club soda; stir gently to combine. Garnish with a sprig of mint.

You can also drop these ingredients in a blender for a slushie.

Serves 1

Note: To make the 2:1 simple syrup, combine 1 cup of sugar and ½ cup of water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a slow, rolling boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 5 minutes. Transfer the syrup to a heatproof container; cool to room temperature before using.

Nutrition | Per serving: 170 calories, 0 g protein, 21 g carbohydrates, 0 g fat, 0 g saturated fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 15 mg sodium, 0 g dietary fiber, 21 g sugar