When we bought our house, I didn’t have time to tend to flowers and wanted something easy and pretty to fill an empty garden bed around our patio. I thought something low-maintenance and edible might be fun. So, I planted two types of mint that year. Most gardeners only recommend planting mint in container gardens because it is incredibly invasive! But, that is exactly why I did it.

Needless to say, there is a mint explosion at our house. The mint plants have taken over that once empty garden bed. The smell is delightful and because there is so much of it, most of it goes to flower, which the bees seem to love.

I love using fresh mint in food and drinks. Right now, I’m on a mint cocktail kick. This weekend, I think I stumbled upon a winner.

Amaretto Mint Rose

Makes 1 drink

Ingredients

• 3 ounces Amaretto
• 1/4 of a fresh lime
• 4-5 mint leaves
• Club soda
• Mint sprig or lime wedge (optional garnish)

Directions
Juice the quarter of the lime into a large shaker and drop in the wedge.

1. Add the mint leaves and mull.
2. Pour in the Amaretto. Add a few pieces of ice. Cover and shake.
3. Strain over ice in a tall cocktail glass.
4. Top with club soda.
5. Garnish with a slice of lime and/or a sprig of fresh mint.