Looking for a thirst-quenching cocktail for your next event? This week's Simple Saturday Sipper, these Watermelon and Cucumber Tonics are a great way to go--they practically scream summer! They are from July's Sunset magazine--part of a drool-worthy feature with five delicious looking summer cocktail-appetizer pairings. (These were matched with Honey Sesame Grilled Chicken Wings.) Having some fresh, local watermelon and cucumber on hand, and a bottle of gin in the pantry, these were easy to throw together.
Sunset says,"Serve any remaining juice mixture over ice for guests who prefer a nonalcoholic drink--or make extra so guests can have both."
Watermelon and Cucumber Tonics
Julianna Grimes, Sunset Magazine, July 2010
(Serves 8 / 25 Minutes)
6 cups cubed, seeded watermelon, divided
1/4 cup mint leaves
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 English cucumber, peeled and cut in chunks
2 1/2 cups tonic water, chilled
1 1/4 cups gin
Combine half each of watermelon, mint, juice, and cucumber in a blender or food processor; whirl until smooth.
Line a fine strainer with 4 layers of cheesecloth, letting cheesecloth extend over edges, and set over a bowl. Strain watermelon mixture. Gather edges of cheesecloth and squeeze out remaining juice. Discard solids. Repeat (from step 1) with remaining watermelon, mint, lemon juice, and cucumber.
Stir 2 1/2 cups juice mixture, tonic, and gin in a pitcher. Pour into glasses filled with ice. Serve any extra juice as is.
Per Serving: 135 cal; 0% from fat; 0.5g protein; 0g fat; 14g carbs; (0.7g fiber); 7mg sodium, 0mg chol.
Notes/Results: Pretty in pink and perfectly refreshing and delicious. I like the fact that these don't have extra sugar added to them--the watermelon adds enough sweetness. The gin works well here, but if you aren't a fan I imagine rum, vodka or even tequila would be fine. A big pitcher of these on a hot day would be great with something spicy or something from the grill. I definitely will make them again.
Notes/Results: Pretty in pink and perfectly refreshing and delicious. I like the fact that these don't have extra sugar added to them--the watermelon adds enough sweetness. The gin works well here, but if you aren't a fan I imagine rum, vodka or even tequila would be fine. A big pitcher of these on a hot day would be great with something spicy or something from the grill. I definitely will make them again.
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Cucumber is such a refreshing flavor to add to a drink. This is definitely perfect for an after work bbq when you just want something to get the edge off!
ReplyDeletewhat an interesting combination! It must be so cool and refreshing, with this heat it is the perfect drink for the summer!
ReplyDeleteAdmittedly the gin sounds interesting in this cocktail. The cool cuke and watermelon probably take the edge off the liquor. Sounds great for summer!
ReplyDeleteThe colors of your sippers are always wonderful. This one is no exception. It looks delicious and cooling. Have a great day. Blessings...Mary
ReplyDeleteoh looks so refreshing enjoy your weekend Deb
ReplyDeleteRebecca
refreshing sipper & delicious brownies...mmm!
ReplyDeletePretty in pink!! These sound very cooling...something we totally need here in Tropical Indiana. No really...it's like a sauna here...I could down a few in no time ;)!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful color of the cooler !!!
ReplyDeleteI've been seeing quite a few tantalizing watermelon concoctions, and I can't wait to try them myself. This looks just great.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds so great! I just had a cucumber margarita the other day, but I never would have thought of adding watermelon with cucumber. That has to be amazing. Double the refreshement!
ReplyDeleteI have never tried tonic water and I'm pretty curious about it. This looks like a gorgeous sipper. Bet it would make for a tasty popsicle!
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear you bought more onopops at the market. All of their flavors sound unique and fun.
Oh yummy, I love anything made with gin! I can't wait to try this one out. Whoever heard of cucumber combined with watermelon, and who would have thought of that flavor combo to start with. The more I think about it, the more I love it!
ReplyDeletejessyburke88@gmail.com