Watermelon Cooler

Watermelon Cooler

For me, watermelon always signaled the on-set of summer. No school, sleeping late and backyard barbecues. I can’t think of any other food that evokes such positive emotions in me. Well, maybe chocolate cake, but watermelon is a close second.

I recently had the whole family over, and son #1 who is a professional chef, was doing the cooking. I was relegated to prepare dessert and beverages. I knew of course that I had to serve these watermelon coolers. It’s the only way to say, kick off those shoes and don the flip flops, summer’s here! Anyway, I kid you not, this is a most refreshing treat. The cucumber and mint in the drink temper the watermelon’s sweetness, and the lime juice adds just a bit of tartness. The mason jars and pink striped straws just make it so darn cute. And who doesn’t like cute.

Watermelon Cooler

Watermelon Cooler 

• 4-5 cups of seedless watermelon (1 medium-sized watermelon), cut into chunks
• 1/2 peeled cucumber, cut into chunks
• 5 -10 mint leaves roughly chopped
• 3 tablespoons of sugar
• 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice
• a pinch of salt

Directions

1. Depending on the size of your blender, you may have to do this in two batches, I did. Divide your ingredients in half, and process it twice if need be. Place all the ingredients in a blender, and process until it smooth. Pour the mixture through a strainer into a bowl, pressing the solids with a wooden spoon to get all the liquid out. 
2. Place the watermelon mixture back in your blender and add ice cubes. Depending on how slushy you want it, add your ice cubes accordingly. I wanted mine very slushy, almost like a snow cone, so I used lots of ice cubes. Serve immediately. 

Mama’s Tips: I like to garnish these drinks with a slice of watermelon and a sprig of mint.

Watermelon Cooler

Recipe: Easy