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Watermelon Vodka Drink

A refreshingly fruity summer cocktail that combines natural watermelon sweetness with smooth vodka, fresh lime juice, and a hint of salt. Ready in just 5 minutes, this drink is perfect for backyard gatherings, pool parties, or lazy weekends.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 drink
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 cups fresh watermelon cubed or chopped (about 1 pound)
  • 1.5 ounces vodka chilled or at room temperature
  • 0.5 ounce fresh lime juice
  • 0.5 ounce simple syrup or agave nectar
  • 4 to 6 ice cubes
  • Pinch of sea salt optional but recommended
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish optional
  • Watermelon wedge or lime wheel for garnish optional

Equipment

  • Blender or food processor
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Highball or rocks glass
  • Measuring jigger
  • Spoon for stirring
  • Cutting board and knife

Method
 

  1. Cut a fresh watermelon into rough 2-inch chunks and remove any large seeds you notice.
  2. Add the watermelon chunks to your blender and pulse until completely smooth, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
  3. Pour the blended watermelon through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl or measuring cup, pushing gently with the back of a spoon to extract all the juice.
  4. Pour 3/4 cup of the fresh watermelon juice into your blender or cocktail shaker, then add 1.5 ounces vodka, 0.5 ounce fresh lime juice, and 0.5 ounce simple syrup.
  5. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt directly into the blender or shaker with your other ingredients.
  6. Add 4 to 6 ice cubes to the blender and blend for 10 to 15 seconds until slushy, or add them to your shaker and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds.
  7. Fill a highball or rocks glass with fresh ice cubes.
  8. Carefully pour your watermelon vodka drink into the prepared glass, leaving about half an inch at the top. Garnish with a fresh watermelon wedge, lime wheel, or sprig of mint.

Notes

Choose a ripe watermelon by looking for a pale yellow spot on the bottom. Chill your vodka and glass ahead of time to prevent watery drinks. Fresh lime juice makes a dramatic difference over bottled versions. Batch this drink in a pitcher for parties by multiplying all ingredients by the number of servings. Store fresh watermelon juice in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.