Watermelon-Basil Mojito

Friday, August 3, 2012


There's nothing quite like a frosty frozen cocktail when you're on vacation, but years of imbibing in San Francisco's best bars have made me more discriminating, even about poolside drinks! One of my favorites is John's watermelon-basil mojito, codified the first summer I brought John along to my parents' house. He introduced cocktail hour, and my mom was always bringing in fresh herbs; it's hard to replace a classic, but I'm still smitten with this slightly sweeter version–and it's perfect for National Watermelon Day!


Watermelon-Basil Mojito

seedless watermelon, cut in chunks
8-10 basil leaves
3/4 oz simple syrup
3/4 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
1 1/2 oz aged rum


Place watermelon and basil leaves at the bottom of a cocktail shaker and muddle. Add simple syrup, lime juice, rum and ice; shake for 5-10 seconds. Strain into a tall glass with ice, and garnish with a slice of watermelon or basil.


Notes: Of course Martha'd have the genius idea to freeze cubes of watermelon for "ice"; it keeps your drink cold without diluting the alcohol or flavor. I love Barbancourt 8 year rum, but this cocktail would be delicious with any brand–cheers!

11 comments:

  1. I'm not big on frozen drinks, but this is something I would make an exception for. It sounds delicious!

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  2. Watermelon ice cubes = genius!

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  3. Wowza. This is probably the most perfect frozen drink I've seen. Course it helps that has two of my favorite ingredients!

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  4. Freshly squeezed watermelon juice has been one of my favorite things ever since I was a little girl in Singapore and we'd buy it on the side of the rode in ziploc bags with a straw! I think this would be a pretty darn good upgrade :)

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  5. I agree! This sounds like Summer in a glass. I need it. Pronto.

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  6. that Martha is one smart lady :)

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  7. That looks so delicious! Watermelon is so perfect for these hot summer days!

    xoxo,
    Suzie Q
    Stella & Dot Bracelet GIVEAWAY

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  8. Yum yum! Looks delicious and refreshing!

    xx Vivian @ http://diamnondsandtulle.blogspot.com

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  9. ok. this is brilliant! I am SO trying this tomorrow :D

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  10. That cocktail is amazing, I could say that it really is a great.

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