Watermelon Rosemary Cooler Cocktail Recipe
This cocktail is all about that refreshing blend: juicy watermelon, herbal rosemary, and a chilled finish. I like to keep the steps clear and use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
Equipment
- Large cutting board for chopping watermelon
- Sharp kitchen knife
- Cocktail shaker
- Fine mesh strainer or sieve
- Muddler
- Jigger or shot glass for measuring
- Tall glass or highball glass
- Bar spoon
- Small saucepan (for making simple syrup)
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Ice cube tray
Ingredients
- Fresh watermelon about 2 cups, diced
- 2 fresh rosemary sprigs plus extra for garnish
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz fresh lime juice from about 1 lime
- 1 oz rosemary simple syrup see Notes
- 1/2 oz triple sec or orange liqueur
- Ice cubes
- Club soda or sparkling water to top
- Lime wheel or wedge for garnish
- Optional: pinch of salt to enhance flavor
Instructions
- Muddle the diced watermelon and rosemary sprigs in the bottom of the shaker until juicy.
- Add the vodka, fresh lime juice, rosemary simple syrup, triple sec, and a pinch of salt (if using).
- Fill the shaker with ice, cover, and shake hard for 15 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with club soda or sparkling water.
- Stir gently with a bar spoon.
- Garnish with a rosemary sprig and a lime wheel or wedge.
- Serve immediately and enjoy while cold.
Notes
For rosemary simple syrup, I toss 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and two rosemary sprigs into a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer, stir until the sugar’s gone, then let it cool and strain out the rosemary.
Fresh lime juice is key here. It adds a bright, tart kick that keeps the watermelon from getting too sweet. I’ll sometimes freeze the watermelon cubes before muddling, just to make the drink extra cold and a bit thicker.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, add more syrup by the half-ounce. Not into sweet drinks? Use less. I like to taste as I go until it’s just right.