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–+ servings

Watermelon Basil Bliss Mocktail Recipe

Watermelon Basil Bliss Mocktail Recipe
This refreshing mocktail combines sweet watermelon with aromatic basil for a perfect summer drink. The recipe uses simple ingredients and takes just minutes to prepare.
John
Prep Time 1 hour 8 minutes
Total Time 8 minutes
Serving Size 4

Equipment

  • Blender or food processor
  • Fine-mesh strainer
  • Muddler or wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Tall glasses for serving
  • Ice cube tray (optional for watermelon ice cubes)
  • Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

  • 4 cups cubed watermelon about half a medium watermelon
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves plus extra sprigs for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice about 1 lime
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup adjust to taste
  • 1 cup sparkling water or club soda
  • Ice cubes
  • Lime slices for garnish

Optional additions:

  • 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger for a spicy kick
  • Mint leaves for extra freshness
  • Watermelon ice cubes pureed watermelon frozen in ice cube trays

Instructions

  • Prepare the watermelon juice: Add the cubed watermelon to a blender and process until smooth. Then, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove pulp and seeds.
  • Muddle the basil: In the bottom of a pitcher or large glass, gently muddle the basil leaves to release their oils and flavor.
  • Mix the base: Add the strained watermelon juice, lime juice, and honey to the muddled basil. Stir until the honey dissolves completely.
  • Chill the mixture: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend. This step can be done up to 24 hours in advance.
  • Serve the mocktail: Fill glasses with ice cubes. Then, pour the watermelon-basil mixture over ice, filling the glasses about 3/4 full.
  • Add fizz: Top each glass with sparkling water and stir gently.
  • Garnish: Add a sprig of fresh basil and a lime slice to each glass before serving.

Notes

This recipe makes about 4 servings. The watermelon juice can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Add the sparkling water only when ready to serve to maintain the fizz.
For a sweeter drink, use very ripe watermelon or add more honey. To make it kid-friendly, reduce the basil or substitute with mint for a milder flavor.
Try freezing some watermelon puree in ice cube trays to use instead of regular ice cubes. This prevents dilution as the ice melts.
For parties, prepare a large batch of the base mixture and let guests add their own sparkling water and garnishes.