Mint - should I cut it back?

I planted a small amount of Mint last year that was beautiful in our meals. Over the winter it dried up. I believe it should come back this year, but should I trim all of the dead stuff off first?

Also, when I harvest it for meals and such, what's the best way to cut the sprigs?

If it had died back you can cut the old stalks out and just compost them.  It resprouts from the root systems.  They are rather invasive so if you have issues with them spreading too much dig it out, sink a large pot into the soil (4-5 gallon)and replant it their to restrict the roots to that one area.  I usually just take a few leaves, or I cut the last 5 inches or so.  I dry a ton of it for tea and it comes in nearly endless varieties.  Have fun.

Okay - so I just cut it down to the bottom? Near the dirt? Thanks for the tip!