Summer days call for a cool and refreshing drink. This watermelon rosemary refresher is perfect for backyard parties, picnics, and warm afternoons by the pool.

This alcohol-free cocktail combines sweet watermelon juice with fragrant rosemary simple syrup and a splash of lime for a balanced blend of flavors.

The recipe takes less than 15 minutes to make and uses simple ingredients from the grocery store.

Kids and adults love this drink, making it a great choice for family gatherings or any time you want a special beverage without alcohol.

The natural sweetness of watermelon pairs with garden-fresh rosemary to create a unique taste. The bright pink color looks beautiful in glasses and adds a pop of fun to any table setting.

Watermelon Rosemary Refresher Mocktail Recipe

This sweet and herbaceous drink brings together fresh watermelon juice and rosemary simple syrup for a cooling non-alcoholic beverage perfect for warm days.

John

Prep Time 8

Total Time 8

Serving Size

Equipment

Ingredients

4 cups cubed seedless watermelon
2 sprigs fresh rosemary plus extra for garnish
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
Club soda
Ice cubes
Watermelon wedges for garnish

Instructions

Make the rosemary simple syrup: Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves.

Add 1 sprig of rosemary to the syrup. Remove from heat and let steep for 15 minutes.
Strain the syrup and refrigerate until cool.
Blend the watermelon chunks until smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh strainer.
In a cocktail shaker, combine 1 cup watermelon juice, 2 tablespoons rosemary simple syrup, and 1 tablespoon lime juice.

Add ice and shake well for 15 seconds.
Strain into tall glasses filled with ice. Top with club soda.
Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and watermelon wedges.

Notes

This recipe makes 4 servings. Store extra watermelon juice in the fridge for up to 2 days.

The rosemary simple syrup keeps for 2 weeks when refrigerated in an airtight container.

For best results, use ripe, sweet watermelon. A pink or red watermelon will give the drink its signature color.

Replace club soda with ginger ale for extra sweetness, or use coconut water for a tropical twist.

Tasting Notes

This mocktail brings a bright, sweet flavor from fresh watermelon juice that mingles with earthy rosemary notes. The combination creates a refreshing drink perfect for warm days.

The first sip reveals the natural sweetness of ripe watermelon. A subtle hint of lime adds a gentle tartness that balances the fruity base.

Fresh rosemary infuses an herbal complexity without being too strong. Its pine-like notes complement the watermelon rather than compete with it.

Key Flavor Elements:

Sweet watermelon
Herbal rosemary
Bright lime
Light carbonation

The drink feels light and crisp on the palate. Tiny bubbles from sparkling water give it a pleasant effervescence that lifts the flavors.

A gentle rosemary aroma fills the nose with each sip. The scent enhances the drinking experience and makes the mocktail feel more sophisticated.

The finish is clean and refreshing. Light watermelon sweetness lingers briefly, making you ready for another sip.

Substitute

Can’t find watermelon? Use cantaloupe or honeydew melon instead. Both options give a sweet, refreshing taste that works well with rosemary.

Need a swap for fresh rosemary? Try 1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary. Mint or basil also make good alternatives that blend nicely with watermelon.

Replace sparkling water with ginger ale or lemon-lime soda for extra sweetness. For a sugar-free version, diet clear sodas work too.

Fresh lime juice can be swapped with lemon juice in equal amounts. If using bottled juice, reduce the amount by half since it’s more concentrated.

Sugar alternatives:

Honey (3/4 the amount called for)
Agave nectar (3/4 the amount called for)
Stevia (start with 1/4 the amount and adjust to taste)

The simple syrup can be replaced with store-bought versions. Just check the sweetness level and adjust as needed.

Watermelon Rosemary Refresher Mocktail Recipe