Description
A refreshing Watermelon Basil Cooler, perfect for hot days. Combines sweet watermelon, fresh basil, and a hint of lime. Easy to make!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 cups cubed seedless watermelon, chilled
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish
- 1/4 cup lime juice, freshly squeezed
- 2 tablespoons agave nectar (or honey, to taste)
- 1 cup water, chilled (more if needed to adjust consistency)
- Ice cubes, for serving
- Optional: Sparkling water or club soda, for topping
- Optional: Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions
- Combine Watermelon and Basil: In a high-powered blender, combine the cubed watermelon and fresh basil leaves.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend the watermelon and basil mixture until completely smooth. Add a tablespoon or two of chilled water to help it along if needed.
- Strain the Mixture (Optional but Recommended): For the smoothest possible cooler, strain the blended mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
- Add Lime Juice and Agave Nectar: Pour the strained (or unstrained) watermelon-basil mixture back into the blender. Add the freshly squeezed lime juice and agave nectar (or honey).
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Blend again briefly to combine the lime juice and agave nectar. Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness as needed.
- Add Chilled Water: Pour in the chilled water. Start with 1 cup and blend again. Add more water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Chill Thoroughly: Pour the watermelon-basil base into a pitcher or container and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer (up to a few hours).
- Prepare Your Glasses: Fill your glasses with ice cubes.
- Pour the Cooler: Pour the chilled watermelon-basil cooler over the ice in each glass.
- Add Sparkling Water or Club Soda (Optional): For a fizzy and extra refreshing twist, top each glass with a splash of sparkling water or club soda.
- Garnish with Basil and Lime: Garnish each glass with a fresh basil leaf and a lime wedge.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the watermelon basil cooler immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For the smoothest texture, straining the blended watermelon and basil mixture is highly recommended.
- Adjust the sweetness and consistency to your personal preference.
- Chilling the mixture is crucial for optimal flavor and refreshment.
- Experiment with different herbs, fruits, or a pinch of spice for variations.
- For an adult version, add a shot of vodka, gin, or tequila.
- You can prepare the watermelon-basil base up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to stir it well before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes