| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: No cooking required | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 215 | 0g | 0g | 33g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 25g | 2g | 2g | 0.02g |
Born and bred in Nebraska, my affection for wholesome, heartland cooking lends a unique spin on even the most simplistic of recipes. And now, I want to share with you one of my summer favorites – the Watermelon Mojito, a vibrant fusion of farm-fresh fruit and lively spices. Despite its tropical flair, there’s something about this cocktail that reminds me of the open plains back home. Maybe it’s the freshness of the ingredients, or perhaps, the way the flavors blend just so, as if kissed by those same Midwest sunsets.
The Perfect Summer Refresher
In the heart of a blistering summer, what could be more refreshing than a cold glass of minty, fruity goodness? The first sip of this Watermelon Mojito is akin to diving in a cool pool on a hot day, invigorating your senses, and making your tastebuds dance. On top of that, the spirit of Midwestern cooking always centers on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, and this recipe is no exception – fresh watermelon juice and the zest of home-grown mint leaves are the stars of this show!
Nutritious and Delicious
But let’s not forget about the health benefits. Besides quenching your thirst, the watermelon in the mojito is chock full of vitamins A and C, and also lycopene, which is a powerful antioxidant. Not to mention, mint leaves can aid digestion, and add a burst of freshness. So, my Watermelon Mojito is not just a treat for your taste buds, but also contributes positively to your summer health regime. Who said delicious can’t be nutritious?
What’s more, this fruity cocktail works a charm alongside a variety of dishes. It can easily lighten up a heavy meal, making it a fantastic accompaniment for a hearty barbecued steak or a rich corn casserole. If you’re after a less meaty pairing, a light summer salad or some grilled veggies would work superbly well, too. In essence, the Watermelon Mojito is a versatile beverage that brightens up any meal.
Whether it’s a backyard barbecue with a few friends, or a quiet evening on the porch, think of this drink as your passport to a mini tropical vacation, right in the comfort of your home.
In conclusion, I love the Watermelon Mojito not just for its refreshing flavors and health benefits, but also for the memories associated with it. Every sip brings a piece of the heartland home – fresh, comforting, and oh-so-delicious. Now, isn’t that something to raise a glass to?
What You’ll Need
- 12 cups of fresh watermelon, cubed
- 1 cup of fresh lime juice
- 1/2 cup of white sugar
- 1 bunch of fresh mint leaves
- 1 cup of white rum
- 2 cups of club soda
- 6 slices of lime, for garnish
- 6 sprigs of mint, for garnish
- Crushed ice
Method
Step One
Place the watermelon into a blender. Cover and puree until smooth. Pour the watermelon puree through a fine mesh strainer to remove the pulp and seeds. You should end up with approximately 12 cups of watermelon juice.
Step Two
Squeeze fresh limes until you have 1 cup of lime juice. Set aside.
Step Three
Add your sugar to a saucepan over medium heat. Pour in 1/2 cup of the watermelon juice and stir until the sugar has completely dissolved into a syrup. Let it cool.
Step Four
Take your fresh mint leaves and gently muddle them in a large pitcher to release their flavor. Be careful not to tear them.
Step Five
Add the watermelon juice, lime juice, sugar syrup, and white rum to the pitcher. Stir until well combined.
Step Six
Just before serving, top up the pitcher with club soda to add a bubbly finish. Stir gently to combine.
Step Seven
Fill 6 glasses with crushed ice. Pour the watermelon mojito mix over the ice, garnish each glass with a slice of lime and a sprig of mint. Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Watermelon Mojito.
