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Watermelon Mojito

A crisp, sweet-tart cocktail that combines fresh watermelon juice with classic mojito flavors. My ratio keeps the drink bright without getting watery.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: American
Calories: 130

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cubed seedless watermelon about 300g
  • 10 fresh mint leaves plus 2 small sprigs for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice from 1 lime
  • 1 tablespoon simple syrup see note
  • 1 cup crushed ice
  • 4 ounces white rum optional; omit for mocktail
  • Club soda or sparkling water to top
  • Lime wheels for garnish

Equipment

  • blender
  • fine-mesh strainer
  • cocktail muddler or wooden spoon
  • highball glasses (2)
  • measuring jigger or spoons
  • small bowl
  • knife
  • cutting board

Method
 

  1. Place the cubed watermelon in a blender. Blend on high until completely smooth, about 20 seconds. Pour through a fine-mesh strainer set over a bowl or measuring cup. Press gently with a spatula to extract juice. Discard the pulp. You should have about 1 cup of juice.
  2. In a small bowl, gently muddle the mint leaves with the lime juice and simple syrup. Use a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon. Press just 3-4 times — you want to release the oils, not shred the leaves into bits.
  3. Divide the muddled mint mixture between two highball glasses. Add 1/2 cup watermelon juice to each glass.
  4. If using rum, pour 2 ounces into each glass. Stir once gently.
  5. Fill each glass with crushed ice. Top with a splash of club soda — about 1/4 cup per glass. Stir gently once more.
  6. Garnish each glass with a small mint sprig and a lime wheel. Serve immediately with a straw.

Notes

To make simple syrup, combine 1/2 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Cool completely before using. Store extra in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. For a non-alcoholic version, omit the rum and add an extra splash of club soda. This drink is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free. If you have dietary restrictions, please consult a qualified professional for personalized advice. Store any leftover watermelon juice in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Always use a sharp knife when cutting the watermelon, and handle glassware carefully when adding ice.