Watermelon Margaritas with Mint Lime Syrup
Simple, strong and refreshing, a classic margarita has got to be one of my favourite drinks. With the zest of real lime juice and a hint of salt, there's nothing that tastes better on a hot summer day, or complements a Mexican dinner in quite the same way. Combine that with my recent love affair with watermelon, and we have a winning cocktail that has quickly become my drink of choice this summer.
The beauty of this watermelon margarita recipe is in the simplicity, with the mint lime syrup taking the most time to prepare. Trust me though, the syrup is worth every last zest, adding just a hint of flavour to the margarita and balancing out the watermelon perfectly. Delicious.
Mint Lime Syrup //
¼ cup fresh mint, finely chopped 1 cup water 1 cup sugar 2 zested limes
1 // Place sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2// Stir in the mint and lime zest until combined. Let simmer for 5-6 minutes.
3 // Remove from heat and allow the syrup to cool.
4 // Strain the syrup through a sieve to remove the leaves and zest.
5 // Store in a sealed jar. Keeps for weeks.
Watermelon Margaritas //
¼ watermelon, cubed 4 oz tequila Mint lime syrup Crushed Himalayan pink salt and sugar (for rim) Ice
1 // Rim the glass. Wet the outside rim of the glass with a fresh lime wedge. Place salt and sugar mixture in a small dish and, holding the glass parallel to the counter, dab the rib in the mixture while slowly turning the glass so that the outer edge becomes covered.
2 // Blend watermelon. Place cubed watermelon in a blender and puree until smooth. Strain if desired.
2// Mix margarita. Fill each glass half full with ice, and pour 2 oz tequila in each, topping with watermelon juice and a dash of mint lime syrup to taste.
Stir and serve!
Makes two cocktails, likely with leftover watermelon juice.
Photos: Jason MatosGlasses and Barware: BYOB