This Watermelon Vodka Cocktail is simple to make and packed with flavor from fresh watermelon juice, basil, lime juice and jalapeño! This is the perfect cocktail for Summer!
I love to sip a bright and fresh cocktail on my patio in the Summer. I love to make fruity drinks like Pineapple Jalapeño Margaritas and Strawberry Mojitos, and citrusy drinks like Lillet Spritz! As long as they are easy and refreshing, I'm in!
And these Watermelon Vodka Cocktails are the perfect drink for any Summertime cookout, or to sip by the pool. They are packed with fresh watermelon juice, basil, jalapeño and lime for the perfect fruity drink. So let's make them!
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These cocktails are so simple to make!
- And they use easy-to-find ingredients.
- This Watermelon Vodka Cocktail is packed with fresh watermelon juice, basil and lime juice.
- It is the perfect drink for any Summer gathering.
- And most importantly, it is absolutely delicious!
Ingredients
Watermelon: In this recipe, I show you how to make watermelon juice from fresh watermelon. But, you can also purchase store-bought! Just make sure the label says 100% watermelon juice.
Vodka: I love Reyka Vodka, but purchase use your favorite.
Lime Juice: Use fresh lime juice! The stuff in the bottle never tastes the same.
Basil: I like to make this Watermelon Vodka Cocktail with basil, but I have also made it with mint. Both are delicious, so use what you have!
Jalapeño: I wanted a little spice in this cocktail, but if you don't like spicy drinks, leave it out!
Special Equipment
If you make the watermelon juice yourself, you need a blender for this recipe!
Instructions
Step 1. First, make the watermelon juice. Add watermelon chunks to the pitcher of a blender.
Blend on high until completely smooth, about 1 minute.
Step 2. Then, fit a fine mesh strainer over a large bowl. Pour the watermelon juice through the sieve to remove any seed bits.
Transfer the juice to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Step 3. To make the cocktail, add chopped jalapeño, lime juice and basil leaves to the bottom of a cocktail shaker.
Use a muddler or a wooden spoon to break up the jalapeño and basil leaves.
Step 4. Add watermelon juice, vodka and ice cubes. Then, place the top onto the shake and shake until very cold, about 1 minute.
Strain the Watermelon Vodka Cocktail into a glass with fresh ice. Then, garnish with a lime wedge and sprig of basil and serve!
Recipe FAQs
I don't recommend making the cocktails ahead of time, but you can make the watermelon juice up to 3 days ahead of time!
Vodka, rum and tequila all pair well with watermelon.
Place watermelon chunks into the pitcher of a blender. Them, blend on high for 1 minute or until the watermelon of completely blended.
Next, pass the mixture through a fine mesh sieve.
That's it!
Expert Recipe Tips
If you don't want a spicy cocktail, leave the jalapeño out! This Watermelon Vodka Cocktail will still be delicious.
The watermelon juice in this recipe makes about 3 cups of juice, or enough juice for 6 cocktails.
Looking for More Summer Recipes?
If you tried this Watermelon Vodka Cocktail with Basil recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the 📝 comments below. Thanks for visiting today!
📖 Recipe
Watermelon Vodka Cocktail
Equipment
- 1 Blender
- 1 Fine Mesh Strainer
- 1 Cocktail Shaker
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
To Make Fresh Watermelon Juice
- 2 Pounds Fresh Watermelon Chunks See Notes!
For the Cocktail
- 1 tablespoon Chopped Jalapeño
- 1 tablespoon Lime Juice
- 3 Fresh Basil Leaves
- ½ Cup Watermelon Juice
- 1 ½ oz Vodka this is one shot glass
- Ice
- Garnishes: basil sprigs, lime slices
Instructions
To Make Watermelon Juice
- Place watermelon chunks into the pitcher of a blender. Blend on high until completely smooth, about 1 minute.2 Pounds Fresh Watermelon Chunks
- Fit a fine mesh strainer over a large bowl. Pour the watermelon juice through the strainer to remove any seed bits. Transfer the juice to a container with a tight fitting lid and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To Make 1 Cocktail
- Add chopped jalapeño, lime juice and basil leaves into a cocktail shaker. Use a muddler or a wooden spoon to break up the jalapeño and bruise the basil leaves.1 tablespoon Chopped Jalapeño, 1 tablespoon Lime Juice, 3 Fresh Basil Leaves
- Fill the shaker with ice, then add watermelon juice, and vodka. Shake until the cocktail is very cold, about 30 seconds.½ Cup Watermelon Juice, Ice, 1 ½ oz Vodka
- Fill a 12 ounce glass with fresh ice, then strain the cocktail into the glass. Garnish with a slice of lime and a basil sprig and serve.Garnishes: basil sprigs, lime slices
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