Bright, Cool Watermelon Mojito (Zero Alcohol, Maximum Refreshment)
This bright, cool watermelon mojito is the ultimate summer refresher – zero alcohol, maximum flavor. Fresh watermelon, mint, and lime come together in 10 minutes for a drink that tastes like a vacation.
Equipment
- Muddler (or wooden spoon)
- Cocktail shaker (or mason jar)
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Tall glass
Ingredients
- 2 cups seedless watermelon, cubed and cold
- 6-8 leaves fresh mint
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- as needed ice
- 2 oz club soda or seltzer
- 1 sprig fresh mint for garnish
Instructions
- In the bottom of your shaker, combine the mint leaves and lime juice. Press gently with the muddler about 5 times – you want to wake up the mint oils, not beat them into bitterness.
- Add the cubed watermelon and press gently 3-4 times. You want some juice released but still some texture.
- Add the simple syrup and a handful of ice. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the shaker is frosty.
- Fill your serving glass with fresh ice. Strain the mixture into the glass through a fine-mesh strainer to catch mint bits and pulp.
- Pour the club soda gently into the glass. Give it a quick, gentle stir to combine.
- Slap a mint sprig between your hands to release the oils and tuck it into the glass. Serve immediately.
Notes
Cold watermelon is key – chill cubes in freezer for 10 minutes if not cold. Don't over-muddle mint or it gets bitter. Taste and adjust sweetness – watermelons vary. Watermelon juice keeps 3-4 days in fridge. Simple syrup keeps 2 weeks.