Watermelon Cocktail Recipe

Watermelon Nutrition Facts

Calories:200

Fat:0g

Protein:1g

Carbohydrates:25g

Alcohol (if added):14%

Created by

Nic Polotnianko

I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.

Last Updated: August 23, 2024

History

The Watermelon Cocktail is a refreshing and fruity drink that originated in the tropical regions where watermelons are abundant. It has become a popular summer beverage enjoyed by people all over the world. The cocktail is perfect for those who love fruity and refreshing drinks, especially during hot summer days.

  • Originated in tropical regions
  • Popular summer beverage
  • Loved by fruit enthusiasts

How Watermelon Tastes?

The Watermelon Cocktail has a refreshing, sweet, and slightly tangy taste. The natural sweetness of the watermelon is balanced by the tartness of the lime and the slight bitterness of the mint. The overall flavor is light and fruity, making it a perfect thirst-quencher.

Interesting facts about Watermelon

  • Watermelon is 92% water, making this cocktail incredibly hydrating
  • The cocktail can be made with or without alcohol, making it versatile for any occasion
  • Watermelon is rich in vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as antioxidants

Ingredients

A few good options for Watermelon are:

  • Grey Goose
  • Belvedere
  • Khor
  • Smirnoff

Learn everything on which Vodka to choose

Watermelon

Why we love it: It's the star of the show! Watermelon gives the cocktail its name and its refreshing edge. Too little and you'll miss out on the flavor; too much and your cocktail could become a watery mess. If watermelon isn't your jam, try substituting with cantaloupe or honeydew for a twist.

Mary Mitkina

Lime Juice

The zesty sidekick that balances the sweetness of the watermelon and syrup with a tangy kick. Spare the lime and spoil the drink, as without it, you'd be stuck in a one-dimensional sugarland. No lime? No problem. Substitute with lemon juice, but expect a sharper, more forward citrus profile.

Alex Green

Fresh Mint Leaves

The cooling agent, offering a burst of freshness to counter the cocktail's sweetness. Forget the mint, and you lose that refreshing herbal note. Basil could be a quirky alternative, introducing a more peppery, robust flavor.

Emma Rose

Simple Syrup

The sweet whisperer that gently enhances the natural sugars of the melon. Without the syrup, the drink may be too tart. If you're feeling adventurous, swap simple syrup for agave or honey for a different type of sweetness.

Mary Mitkina

Ice

The chill factor, crucial for diluting the cocktail to the perfect sippable consistency. No ice means a less refreshing, possibly more potent potion. Crushed ice will give a slushier texture, which might be fun on a hot summer day!

Alex Green

Vodka

The silent kicker, it's optional but brings an unobtrusive boozy lift. Without it, the cocktail remains a delicious mocktail. If vodka's not your spirit, try gin for a more botanical twist.

Emma Rose

Garnish

The finishing touch: a wedge of watermelon and a sprig of mint. An eye-catcher, but also an aroma enhancer before the first sip. Skip and your cocktail might lose its 'Gram-worthiness.

Mary Mitkina

Recipe. How to make Watermelon Drink

  1. Prepare the watermelon
    • Cut the watermelon into small cubes, removing any seeds
  2. Blend the ingredients
    • In a blender, combine the watermelon cubes, lime juice, mint leaves, simple syrup, and ice
    • Blend until smooth
  3. Add alcohol (optional)
    • If desired, add vodka to the blender and blend for a few more seconds to combine
  4. Strain and serve
    • Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a glass
    • Garnish with a watermelon wedge and a sprig of mint
    • Serve immediately

Pro Tips

  • Use ripe watermelon: The riper the watermelon, the sweeter your cocktail will be.
  • Chill your ingredients: For a colder cocktail, chill your watermelon and vodka before blending.
  • Adjust sweetness: If your watermelon isn't sweet enough, add a bit more simple syrup.

Perfect Pairings

Appetizers

  • Grilled Shrimp Skewers: The light and crisp flavors of the Watermelon cocktail will cut through the smoky char of the shrimp.
  • Cheese Platter: Opt for mild cheeses such as feta or mozzarella; their creaminess will complement the cocktail's acidity.

Main Courses

  • Chicken Salad: A dish with a citrusy dressing will harmonize with the lime juice in the drink.
  • Fish Tacos: The freshness of the watermelon and mint would go excellently with a spicy fish taco.

Desserts

  • Lemon Sorbet: Its tartness and the coldness of the sorbet will be refreshing alongside the cocktail.
  • Fresh Fruit Plate: A simple fruit plate can mirror the simplicity and freshness of the Watermelon cocktail.

🍹 Discover the Top 50 All-Time Recipes! 🍹

Enter your email, and we'll send the exclusive list straight to your inbox.

We respect your privacy and take protecting it seriously

What you could change in Watermelon

  • Lime juice: You can substitute lime juice with lemon juice.
  • Mint leaves: Basil can be used instead of mint for a different flavor profile.
  • Vodka: You can use rum or tequila instead of vodka.

Explore all drinks starting with W here

And of course - twists🍹

Spicy Watermelon Jalapeño Margarita

Replace vodka with tequila, add a few slices of fresh jalapeño to the blender, and swap lime juice with lemon juice. You'll get a spicy kick that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet watermelon.

Watermelon Cucumber Cooler

Add a handful of fresh cucumber slices to the blending step. This gives a cooling effect and a clean finish to the drink, perfect for hydration on a scorching summer day.

Watermelon Basil Bliss

Switch the mint for basil and add a splash of elderflower liqueur instead of vodka. This version offers a sophisticated, herby twist with a floral undertone that'll make you think you're sipping in a blooming garden.

In case you forgot basics how to make Watermelon

The basic composition of simple syrup is relatively straightforward – a 1:1 ratio of sugar and water. This mixture is heated until the sugar dissolves, resulting in a clear, sweet syrup.

Learn everything about simple syrup

Place your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.

Learn everything on how to strain

Garnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).

Learn everything on garnishing

Find the cocktail you'd love!

If you want to drink something else - you can use our AI-augmented search to find the best cocktail for you!
Completely free!

Frequently Asked Questions on Watermelon

What's the best type of watermelon to use for this cocktail?

A ripe, seedless watermelon is ideal for this cocktail to maximise the sweetness and minimise the time spent removing seeds.

Can I prepare the Watermelon Cocktail in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the Watermelon Cocktail in advance. Just blend all the ingredients, and store it in the refrigerator, then add ice just before serving.

What type of glass should I use to serve the Watermelon Cocktail?

While any glass would work, a highball or a Collins glass would be a great choice to showcase the vibrant color and the garnishes of the cocktail.

Can I add other fruits to the Watermelon Cocktail?

Absolutely, you can experiment with adding other fruits like strawberries or raspberries to give the cocktail a different flavor.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of this cocktail?

Yes, just omit the vodka, and you have a delicious, refreshing non-alcoholic beverage.

Can I use a different herb instead of mint?

Yes, herbs like basil or even rosemary can provide an interesting twist on the original flavor.

More similar recipes to Watermelon!

Explore new cocktails you'd love!

Please rate this recipe