RestaurantsMasa MesaLa Vida Fresca Recipe

La Vida Fresca Recipe

Inspired by Masa Mesa
Time8m
Serves1

LYRE’S SPARKLING, MINT, ELDERFLOWER, LIME

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Cocktail

Method

Cocktail

1

Prep glass and mint

Chill a highball or Collins glass if possible. In a mixing glass or shaker, place 8 of the fresh mint leaves (reserve 2 leaves for garnish) and half an ounce of fresh lime juice. If you prefer a slightly sweeter cocktail, add 0.25 oz simple syrup now. Gently muddle the mint and lime (and syrup if using) just enough to release the oils — avoid over‑muddling which can make the drink bitter.

2

Build the drink

Fill the chilled serving glass about three‑quarters full with crushed ice (approximately 1 cup). Spoon the muddled mint and lime mixture over the ice, allowing some of the mint to be submerged. Pour 3 oz Lyre's Sparkling (or other non‑alcoholic sparkling aperitif) over the ice and muddled mixture.

3

Finish and balance

Add 0.5 oz elderflower cordial over the top, then gently stir once or twice with a bar spoon to combine layers without completely flattening the bubbles. Top with 1.5 oz chilled club soda (or sparkling water) to lift and lighten the drink. Taste and adjust: if it needs more brightness, add another 0.25 oz lime; if it needs sweetness, add up to 0.25 oz more simple syrup.

4

Garnish and serve

Slap the reserved mint sprig between your palms to wake the aromatics and place it on top of the glass along with a lime wheel or wedge on the rim. Serve with a straw or short stirrer. Enjoy immediately while effervescence is lively.