This summer, it's all about reinventing the classics. (Speaking of, have you entered our recipe contest yet?) Today the reinvention is watermelon, one of my all-time favorite summer treats. I typically enjoy it cubed and chilled, but today I'm sharing a variation (actually, three) that I think you will love as much as I do. It turns out that I love drinking watermelon as much as I enjoy eating it! Plus, the beautiful color is absolutely enchanting, and a little sprig of mint on top seals the deal. Is your mouth watering yet? Mine is.
Watermelon Aqua Fresca
2 cups ice cubes 2 cups water 2 cups watermelon (no rind) 1/4 - 1/2 cup sugar, depending on taste juice of 1/2 of a lime (about 2 - 3 tablespoons) mint leaves for garnish
Directions Combine all ingredients in a blender and mix on high until smooth and frothy. Serve immediately with mint garnish.
Watermelon Limeade
2 cups water 2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice 1/2 cup sugar 2 cups watermelon (no rind)
Directions Combine all ingredients in a blender and mix on high speed until smooth. Serve over ice. (This variation will keep up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.)
Watermelon Iced Tea
4 lemon zinger herbal tea bags 2 cups boiling water 2 cups ice water 3/4 cup sugar 2 - 3 cups watermelon ice cubes mint for garnish
Directions Pour 2 cups boiling water over tea bags in a heat-resistant container. Steep 4 - 6 minutes and remove tea bags. Add sugar and stir until dissolved completely. Add ice water and chill until ready to serve. Before serving, blend watermelon and ice cubes in a blender until smooth and frothy. Fill serving glasses 3/4 full of the iced tea mixture, then pour watermelon mixture to fill the glass. Top with mint sprigs and serve.