How to Make A Watermelon Mojito

The minty mojito cocktail's origin is attributed to Francis Drake in 1586. The secret to the watermelon twist on this historically refreshing drink is a pinch of salt. The salt brings out the flavor of the watermelon, helping it combine perfectly with the mint, lime and rum. The result is a refreshing summer drink with a lovely pink color best served on an outdoor patio on a sunny day.

Things You'll Need

• 15 fresh mint leaves
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• ½ cup fresh lime juice
• ¾ cup light rum
• 3 cups of 1-inch watermelon cubes (seedless or remove seeds when cubing)
• pinch of salt
• 1 cup soda water or sparkling water
• Blender
• Muddler or wooden or ice-tea spoon
• Cocktail umbrellas (optional)

Instructions

1. Blend 3 cups of 1-inch watermelon cubes in a blender until smooth.

2. Squeeze the juice of about 2 limes to produce ½ cup of lime juice.

3. Combine 15 fresh mint leaves, 2 tbsp. sugar, ½ cup lime juice and pinch of salt in a small drink pitcher. Use a bartender's muddler, wooden spoon handle or long, iced-tea spoon to lightly crush the mint leaves to release the oils and stir the ingredients together. Leave the leaves largely intact.

4. Add ¾ cup of light rum and the blended watermelon to the pitcher and stir.

5. Fill four tall glasses with ice. Pour the watermelon mojito mix into the glasses and top up each glass by dividing 1 cup of soda or sparkling water among the four glasses to give the drink a little added summer sparkle. Decorate with mint sprigs or cocktail umbrellas.

Tips & Warnings

• For more of a slush-type drink, crush the ice before placing it in the glasses.

• Kids can enjoy this vitamin-packed drink by following all the steps but leaving out the addition of the rum.