This incredibly refreshing drink captures the essence of summer with sweet, juicy watermelon and cooling fresh mint. Naturally hydrating and lightly sweetened, it's the perfect antidote to hot weather and a healthy way to satisfy your thirst while enjoying the season's best flavors.
Recipe Details
Ingredients
- 1kg fresh watermelon, cubed and seeded
- 30ml fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
- 60ml fresh lime juice
- 30ml honey (optional, adjust to taste)
- 480ml sparkling water, chilled
- as needed ice cubes
- 1 lime lime slices for garnish
- 4 large fresh mint sprigs for garnish
- pinch coarse salt (optional, to enhance sweetness)
Instructions
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In a blender, combine 1kg fresh watermelon, 30ml fresh mint leaves, 60ml fresh lime juice, and 30ml honey (optional. Blend until completely smooth.
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Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove pulp and mint pieces, pressing solids to extract maximum juice. Discard solids.
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Taste the watermelon base and adjust sweetness with additional 30ml honey (optional if needed. Add a small pinch of pinch coarse salt (optional to enhance the natural sweetness if desired.
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Chill the watermelon-mint base in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
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Fill 4 tall glasses with as needed ice cubes. Divide the chilled watermelon mixture evenly among glasses, filling each about halfway.
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Top each glass with 480ml sparkling water and stir gently to combine.
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Garnish with 1 lime lime slices for garnish and 4 large fresh mint sprigs for garnish. Serve immediately while cold and fizzy.
Tips
Watermelon Selection: Choose a ripe watermelon that sounds hollow when tapped and has a creamy yellow spot where it sat on the ground. The flesh should be deep red and sweet.
Mint Handling: Gently bruise mint leaves before blending to release more flavor oils. Fresh spearmint works best, but peppermint can be used for a stronger mint flavor.
Straining Importance: Straining creates a smooth, refined drink without pulp. For a more rustic version, skip straining and blend until very smooth.
Make-Ahead Convenience: The watermelon-mint base can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and stored refrigerated. Add sparkling water just before serving.
Sweetness Notes: Ripe watermelon is usually sweet enough on its own. Taste before adding honey, as sweetness can vary greatly between melons.
Alcohol Addition: For an adult version, add vodka or white rum to taste. Muddle extra mint in the glass before adding other ingredients for more intense flavor.
Serving Variations: Freeze in ice pop molds for a healthy summer treat, or blend with extra ice for a slushy consistency.