Strawberry Mint Coolers

For Syrup: 1 (1 lb.) package strawberries 1 cup sugar 1 cup water Grated zest of one lime 1/4 cup lime juice 3 generous sprigs of fresh mint

For each cooler: 2 Tbsp. strawberry syrup 1 cup chilled sparkling water or seltzer Lime wedge or slice Ice cubes Fresh mint sprig Strawberry for garnish

Rinse, drain, remove stems, and halve berries; set aside. In medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, and lime juice and boil for 2 minutes. Add berries and bring mixture back to boiling. Stir in mint and lime zest. Cover and let stand 10 minutes. Strain, without crushing or pressing. Cover and chill. Makes syrup for about 16 Coolers

Pour syrup into tall glass. Add water and squeeze of lime along with lime wedge or slice and ice cubes. Garnish with mint and a whole strawberry.