Chez Es Saada's Palmyra

In a cocktail shaker, mix the vodka, lime juice, simple syrup and chopped mint and strain into 2 glasses filled with small ice cubes. Garnish with the lime slices and mint sprigs and serve.

To make the simple syrup, simmer 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water in a saucepan over moderate heat, stirring, until clear, about 1 minute. Let cool. A batch (about 1 1/2 cups) will keep in your refrigerator for up to 1 month.