I carried The Watermelon
Those immortal words sporken by Baby in the classic Dirty Dancing are always on my mind when I work with their lucious summer fruit.
Watermelon is composed of about 92% water, making it incredibly hydrating. This high water content means that watermelon cocktails are not only refreshing but also help keep you hydrated, especially during hot summer days. The natural juiciness of watermelon provides a perfect base for cocktails, ensuring that every sip is thirst-quenching and revitalizing.
Naturally Sweet and Low-Calorie
One of the great advantages of using watermelon in cocktails is its natural sweetness. This allows for a reduction in added sugars, making the drink a healthier choice. Additionally, watermelon is relatively low in calories, which means you can enjoy a flavored cocktail without the guilt.
Versatile Flavor Pairings
Watermelon’s mild and sweet flavor pairs well with a variety of other ingredients. Here are a few combinations that highlight its versatility:
Mint: The coolness of mint complements the sweet juiciness of watermelon, creating a refreshing mix.
Citrus: Lime or lemon adds a zesty kick, enhancing the natural flavors of the watermelon.
Herbs: Basil or rosemary can add an unexpected yet delightful twist to watermelon cocktails.
Spirits: Vodka, rum, tequila, and even gin all blend beautifully with watermelon, allowing for a range of cocktail options.
Eye-Catching Presentation
The vibrant pink hue of watermelon makes for visually stunning cocktails. Whether served in a glass with a slice of watermelon as garnish or creatively presented in a hollowed-out watermelon, these drinks are sure to impress guests. The visual appeal of watermelon cocktails adds an extra layer of enjoyment, making them perfect for social media-worthy photos.
Watermelon Truck Punch Recipe
Watermelon Truck Punch is a refreshing and crowd-pleasing drink that’s perfect for summer gatherings. This punch combines the juicy sweetness of watermelon with a medley of complementary flavors, creating a delightful beverage that’s sure to be a hit at any event.
Ingredients:
1 large seedless watermelon
1/2 cup of lime juice
1/2 cup of simple syrup (adjust to taste)
2 cups of white brandy (optional for an alcoholic version)
2 cups Fino or Manzanilla sherry (optional for an alcoholic version)
1 liter of club soda or lemon-lime soda
Ice cubes
Fresh mint leaves and lime slices for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Watermelon: Cut the top off the watermelon to create a lid and hollow out the inside using a melon baller or large spoon. Set aside the hollowed-out watermelon to use as a punch bowl or add a spigot.
Make the Watermelon Juice: Puree the watermelon flesh in a blender until smooth. Pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any pulp, collecting the juice in a large bowl or pitcher.
Mix the Punch: In a large pitcher, combine the freshly made watermelon juice with pineapple juice, orange juice, lime juice, and simple syrup. Stir well to mix the flavors.
Add Spirits (Optional): If you’re making an alcoholic version, pour in the white brandy and dry sherry and stir to combine.
Serve in the Watermelon: Pour the punch into the hollowed-out watermelon. Add the club soda or lemon-lime soda just before serving to maintain the fizz.
Garnish and Serve: Add ice cubes to the punch, and garnish with fresh mint leaves and lime slices. Serve with a ladle into glasses or cups for your guests to enjoy.
This fun and festive punch not only tastes incredible but also makes a stunning centerpiece for your table. It’s an ideal choice for barbecues, picnics, or any summer event where you want to impress your guests with a flavorful and visually appealing drink. Cheers to summer fun!
Watermelon Drop
The Watermelon Drop is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast martini, bringing a refreshing and fruity flair to your morning or brunch gatherings. With the luscious taste of watermelon combined with the tangy essence of citrus and the smoothness of gin, this cocktail is sure to invigorate your senses and make your mornings memorable.
Ingredients:
1 1/2 ounces of gin
1 oz fresh watermelon juice
1/2 ounce of triple sec
1/2 ounce of fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon of watermelon jam
Ice cubes
Crushed Watermelon candy sugar rim
Instructions:
Prepare the Watermelon Juice:
In a blender, puree 1 cup of watermelon cubes until smooth.
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any pulp, collecting the juice in a small pitcher or bowl.
Mix the Cocktail:
In a cocktail shaker, combine 1 ounces of the watermelon juice with gin, triple sec, lemon juice, and watermelon jam.
Add a handful of ice cubes to the shaker.
Shake It Up:
Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to ensure all ingredients are well combined and chilled.
Strain and Serve:
Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass with Watermelon sugar rim.
How to Prepare a Sugar Rim for Your Watermelon Drop
Enhance your Watermelon Breakfast Martini with a delightful and visually appealing sugar rim. Not only does it add a touch of sweetness, but it also elevates the overall presentation of your cocktail. Follow these simple steps to create the perfect sugar rim:
Ingredients:
Crushed Watermelon Candy Sugar: You can find watermelon-flavored candies and crush them to create a flavorful sugar rim.
Lemon or Lime Wedge: To moisten the rim of the glass.
Instructions:
Prepare the Glass:
Take a chilled martini glass and ensure it's dry and clean.
Moisten the Rim:
Use a lemon or lime wedge to gently moisten the outer rim of the glass. Run the wedge around the rim to ensure even coverage.
Create the Sugar Mixture:
Place the crushed watermelon candy sugar on a flat plate or shallow dish. Spread it out evenly to cover the surface area.
Rim the Glass:
Carefully dip the moistened rim of the glass into the crushed sugar, twisting slightly to coat the edge evenly.
Check for Coverage:
Lift the glass and gently shake off any excess sugar. Inspect to ensure the rim is evenly coated with the vibrant sugar.
Now your martini glass is beautifully adorned with a sweet, watermelon-flavored sugar rim, ready to host your refreshing Watermelon Drop.
This Watermelon Drop is a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a sophisticated yet playful cocktail. Whether you're hosting a brunch or simply enjoying a leisurely morning, this drink is sure to add a splash of color and taste to your experience. Cheers to a refreshing start to the day!
Spirited Destinations
Spirited Destinations
Bar Maven. Educator. Storyteller. Performer. Curator. Media Star. Bar maven. Mixologist. Historian. Creator. Bartender of the Year.
A hospitality professional with over a decade in the Spirits Industry, I got my start making neighborhood craft cocktails at the innovative bars of turn of 21st century New York City. Since then, I’ve created drinks at award-winning restaurants from New Orleans to Seattle, from Rome to Athens and Puerto Rico. I’ve been named Bartender of the Year many times, and concocted libations for the Today Show and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.
My craft gives me a passport to visit some of the most interesting places in the world!
Better yet, I drink with the people who live there and grow and distill ingredients.