Go Back Email Link
–+ servings

Watermelon Basil Refresher Cocktail Recipe

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 minutes
Total Time 8 minutes
Serving Size 4

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.