Summer calls for refreshing drinks, and the Watermelon Basil Refresher Cocktail fits the bill perfectly. This drink combines sweet watermelon with zesty basil for a unique flavor.

The recipe is easy to make and requires only a few ingredients.

The cocktail’s bright red color makes it eye-catching for parties or backyard gatherings. Its light and fruity taste appeals to many people, even those who don’t usually enjoy alcoholic beverages. The basil adds an unexpected twist that elevates it above ordinary fruit drinks.

Mixing up a batch of Watermelon Basil Refresher Cocktails is a great way to use extra watermelon. The recipe can be adjusted to make a non-alcoholic version for kids or those who prefer not to drink. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit on hot summer days.

Watermelon Basil Refresher Cocktail Recipe

This tasty drink combines sweet watermelon with fresh basil for a cool summer treat. The recipe is quick to make and perfect for warm weather gatherings.

John

Prep Time 8

Total Time 8

Serving Size

Equipment

Blender
Fine-mesh strainer
Muddler or wooden spoon
Cocktail shaker
Jigger or measuring cup
Glasses for serving

Ingredients

For 4 servings:

4 cups cubed seedless watermelon
8-10 fresh basil leaves plus extra for garnish
1/2 cup white rum
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons simple syrup
Ice cubes
Club soda

Use ripe, sweet watermelon for the best flavor. You can adjust the amount of simple syrup based on how sweet your watermelon is.

Instructions

Put the watermelon cubes in a blender. Blend until smooth.
Strain the watermelon puree through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl.
In a cocktail shaker, muddle the basil leaves gently to release their oils.
Add the watermelon juice, rum, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
Fill the shaker with ice and shake well for about 15 seconds.
Strain the mixture into glasses filled with ice.
Top each glass with a splash of club soda.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve right away.

Notes

You can make this drink non-alcoholic by leaving out the rum and adding more club soda. For a stronger basil flavor, let the muddled leaves sit in the watermelon juice for 10 minutes before mixing. The cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make the watermelon juice ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Must Have Ingredients

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Tasting Notes

The Watermelon Basil Refresher Cocktail offers a burst of summer flavors. Its taste is sweet and fruity, with a bright watermelon flavor at the forefront. The basil adds a subtle herbal note that balances the sweetness.

This cocktail has a light and crisp texture. It’s refreshing and easy to drink, perfect for hot days. The watermelon and basil work well together, creating a unique flavor combination.

The drink has a pretty pink color from the watermelon juice. It looks inviting in a tall glass with ice. A basil leaf garnish adds a nice touch of green.

The aftertaste is clean and leaves a hint of watermelon on the palate. This cocktail is not too strong, making it a good choice for casual sipping.

Substitute

Watermelon and basil are key ingredients in this refreshing cocktail. But what if you don’t have them on hand?

No worries! You can still make a tasty drink with some easy swaps.

For the watermelon, try using strawberries or raspberries instead. These berries will give a similar sweet and fruity flavor. You can use fresh or frozen fruit.

If you’re out of basil, mint makes a great replacement. It adds a cool, fresh taste that pairs well with fruit. You could also try cilantro for a different herbal twist.

Don’t have the exact alcohol called for? Most light spirits will work fine. Vodka, white rum, or gin can often be swapped in cocktail recipes.

For a non-alcoholic version, use sparkling water or lemon-lime soda in place of any liquor. This creates a fun mocktail everyone can enjoy.

Remember, substitutes may change the flavor a bit. But they can also lead to yummy new drink creations.

Feel free to experiment and find your perfect mix!

Watermelon Basil Refresher Cocktail Recipe