WATERMELON LIMEADE

This refreshing drink is what you need to cool you down in that summer heat! This recipe was born after I cut up all my watermelon and had no containers to put the rest in... so I blended it! The watermelon juice on its own was good, but I felt it needed a pop of brightness and acidity- hence the addition of lime! This drink is the perfect balance of sweet and tart!

Ingredients (for 1 drink):

-1 1/2 cups of watermelon, cubed and then blended

-1 oz of freshly squeezed lime juice

-splash of sparkling water

-lots of ice

-1 oz simple syrup (OPTIONAL)

For the Rim:

1. Mix equal parts sugar and lime zest on a plate.

2. Run a lime wedge along the rim of your glass and then dip the glass into the sugar and lime zest mix.

How to Make Simple Syrup:

1. Mix equal parts sugar and water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil.

2. Cool to room temperature and then it is ready to use in any drink! (You can also use the simple syrup to keep cake layers moist, but I'll save that for another day.)

Method:

1. In a blender, blend the watermelon until it is smooth. Strain the mixture and be sure to press it to get all of the juice out.

2. Pour the strained juice into a jar and refrigerate for a few hours. (If your watermelon was already in the fridge, and is cold, then you can skip this step!)

3. Fill a large glass with ice. Add 3/4 cup of the watermelon juice, 1 oz of lime juice, and a splash of sparkling water. Give it a quick stir and taste. If you like your drinks on the sweeter side, add 1 oz of simple syrup and stir again.

4. Enjoy right away! Cheers!

***If you wanted to make a boozy version, a shot (or two) of vodka or gin would be perfect!