Spring is definitely in the air and I’m madly collating recipes for cocktails that can be batched up and taken to the beach, a friend’s barbecue or anywhere else one might need a refreshing gin cocktail. This Watermelon, Cucumber and Gin cooler is perfect, especially as you make up the juice separately so you have an option for non-drinking buddies! I’ve seen this recipe in lots of places, with and without cucumber, mint or lime. The recipe below is just how I preferred it.
Ingredients for the Watermelon, Cucumber and Gin Cooler (makes 4 short drinks or 2 long)
1/2 a watermelon (plus a slice or two for garnish)
1 large cucumber (keep a slice or two for garnish)
The juice from 1/2 lime – add more to taste (keep a slice for garnish)
10 Mint leaves (I used much fewer than suggested as I find mint a bit overpowering)
Gin ( I used West Winds Cutlass)
Method
Peel the cucumber and add to a blender with the chopped watermelon, the juice of the lime, mint leaves and some ice. Blend until smooth. Strain the juice through a sieve (for extra points I strained it through a muslin, but it’s fine if you can’t be bothered!).
Pour 45ml of gin into each glass and add some ice. Top up with the watermelon/cucumber juice and add your preferred garnish. Enjoy!
(If you want to make this up, store the juice in an airtight bottle until needed. The juice may separate a little, but is fine after a quick stir)
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