Amongst my friends it is a well-known fact that I am the lightest lightweight that has ever existed when it comes to handling alcohol. That, along with my taste preferences, and the fact that drinks can cost an arm and a leg at some places have left me not being much of a drinker. I'll have the odd champagne or wine, but it's rare that you'll find me sipping on anything besides water or juice when I'm out.
With that said, I have to admit that there's something about springtime sunshine that just really makes me want to have a picnic with some snacks and good drinks. On a particularly warm day recently I was slicing some watermelon and thinking how perfect a watermelon cocktail would be, but since I am definitely no bartender I pushed the thought aside. However I am nothing if not stubborn, so I decided I would venture forth into the cocktail world!
After some tinkering and a lot of questions to my cocktail-tester (he was happy to oblige), I have found my new spring and summer drink! The combination of watermelon and mint is so refreshing, but also slightly dangerous considering how easy it is to drink a few glasses of this lovely minty watermelon cocktail without realizing you just had a couple shots of vodka; a delicious and deceitful drink for sure.
YIELDS
3-4 servings
PREP TIME
COOK TIME
TOTAL TIME
- 4 cups Seedless watermelon, cubed
- 1.5 cups Still or sparkling water
- 1/8 cup Mint leaves
- 4 shots Vodka (or more, depending on your preference)
- 2 teaspoons Maple syrup (if your watermelon isn't that ripe and sweet, add an extra teaspoon or two)
- 1/4 cup Lemon juice
Directions
1.) Into a blender add the watermelon, lemon juice, maple syrup, and half of the mint leaves. Blend until smooth.
2.) Take the remaining mint leaves and give them a few solid claps between your palms (this helps with extracting the mint flavor) then add to the serving pitcher along with a healthy amount of ice and your choice of water.
3.) Strain the blended watermelon mixture and add to the pitcher.
4.) Lastly, add the vodka to the pitcher and stir until everything is combined.
Also by Aubrey: Vegan Chocolate-Covered Mocha Popsicles
Related: Greek Lemonade Cocktail
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Photos: Aubrey Pacheco
