Garden to Cocktail: Cilantro Mojitos

These three mojito recipes are for the cilantro-lovers. 

Three Cilantro Mojito Recipes

Cilantro Mojito

Trading in mint for cilantro is a spicy twist on this classic cocktail.

Trading in mint for cilantro is a spicy twist on this classic cocktail.

Today I’m arguing in defense of cilantro. 

Our country seems to be divided between those who hate and those who love this pungent herb. Some have been completely scared off by cilantro’s flavor–many say the herb tastes like soap, a phenomenon that may be genetic.

For me, cilantro is the new mint.  I put it in salads, stews or sometimes just eat it raw. I’ll even admit there have been multiple dinner occasions when I have picked the herb out of a cilantro-hating friend’s meal.

Exchanging mint for cilantro adds a spicy kick to the classically sweet summer cocktail. And just like a traditional mojito, your flavor combinations are endless. Here’s three to get you started:

Cilantro Mojito

  • 6–8 cilantro leaves
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons rich cilantro simple syrup (recipe below)
  • 1 1/2 ounces white rum
  • 1/2 cup club soda or clear, citrus soda
  • 1 lime
  • Ice

Muddle cilantro simple syrup and cilantro leaves in the bottom of a glass. Add rum, juice from one lime, and ice. Garnish with a lime wedge. 

For a pineapple cilantro mojito, use 1/2 tablespoon cilantro simple syrup and 1 tablespoon pineapple juice. Garnish with fresh pineapple slices.

For a jalapeno cilantro mojito, use 2 tablespoons cilantro simple syrup and add jalapeno slices to the mix. Note: careful, this one’s hot! 

To make rich* cilantro simple syrup:

  • 2 parts sugar
  • 1 part water
  • Cilantro sprigs, rinsed

2 cups sugar and 1 cup water yields 2 cups of cilantro simple syrup.

Bring water to a boil, then slowly add sugar. Stir continuously until the sugar is dissolved and remove pan from heat.  Add in cilantro and stir, gently muddling the cilantro with your spoon.

Allow the mixture to completely cool before use and store in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to a month.

*Regular simple syrup calls for 1 part sugar to one part water, but this thicker syrup is perfect for cocktails and allows you to use less than many drink recipes normally call for. 

Next Up

How to Grow Cilantro

Growing cilantro in pots or your garden is like "two for the price of one." Harvest this herb's leaves for salsas, salads and soups and save the seeds for coriander spice.

Make This Mother's Day Cocktail Gift Basket

Whip up a floral-inspired gift basket that’s as easy to assemble as it is to enjoy. Plus, this blackberry simple syrup recipe will easily become your seasonal go-to.

Pineapple Mojito Recipe

Drink in the tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut and your fresh garden mint in this flavor-packed cocktail.

How to Make a Rosemary Gin-Ginger Cocktail

On a winter evening you need flavors that are bold enough to match the crisp outdoor temperatures. Try this easy cocktail to warm you up. 

Garden-Fresh Cocktail Recipes

Quench your thirst with punches, pops and other beverages made with ingredients from your garden.

A New Year's Eve Cocktail

Fresh berries add a splash of color to your champagne toast.

Sage Cocktail Recipe

Create a quick syrup for this dreamy cocktail.

How to Make a Herbin' Orange Cocktail

Looking for a winter cocktail that is high in vitamin C and garden goodness? This one has a complex and balanced range of flavors that give it a tasty kick. 

Butternut Rum Toddy Cocktail Recipe

Butternut squash? In a cocktail? Yes, please!

Holiday Sangria Recipe

Try this delicious, seasonal punch using cranberries, apples and crisp white wine.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.