My kids love watermelon, and right now is the perfect time of year to enjoy it. But the average weight of a supermarket watermelon is 20 pounds! That goes a long way in my household, too long in fact. I hate waste, and I love happy hour, so I found a few creative ways to use it up. Two of my favorite recipes for summertime cocktails are below, and a great way to use up the excess. Win-win!
Watermelon Margarita
Serves 4
4 cups fresh cubed watermelon
2T sugar (optional)
6 oz. tequila (silver or reposada, personal preference)
1/2 cup fresh lime juice
2 oz. St. Germain (Elderflower liquer)
Combine watermelon and sugar (if using) in blender, and puree until smooth. Pour through a fine mesh strainer. Combine tequila, lime juice and elderflower liquer. Pour over ice into salt-rimmed glasses, garnish with lime and a cucumber wedge and enjoy!
Summer Sangria
Serves 5-6
1 bottle white wine
1/4 cup brandy, triple sec or St. Germain
1 lemon, sliced thin
1 lime, sliced thin
1 cup watermelon puree
1 cup cubed watermelon
1 cup assorted cut fruit or mixed berries
Fresh mint, for garnish
Combine all ingredients and chill for 2-4 hours. Pour over ice and garnish with fresh mint sprigs.
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Meredith Antunez
Author