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Once you try this ultimate summer cocktail, you'll never again hesitate to buy a whole watermelon. Just freeze leftover melon so it's ready when you want to whirl up a cool luscious drink.
1/4 seedless watermelon
1 cup vodka, or gin
1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
1/4 cup orange liqueur
3 tbsp granulated sugar
fresh raspberries and blueberries, optional
lemon slices, optional
Peel watermelon and chop into 1-inch (2.5-cm) pieces. You should have about 5 cups (1.25 L). Place in a plastic bag and freeze at least 4 hours, preferably overnight or up to 1 month.
Just before serving, place frozen watermelon in a blender. Pour in vodka, lime juice, orange liqueur and sugar. Whirl or pulse until frothy and almost smooth. Pour into cocktail or martini glasses. Skewer berries or small watermelon balls and a slice of lemon on toothpicks and prop on rim of glass or place in drink.
Calories 240, Protein 1.1g, Carbohydrates 26.7g, Fat 0.8g, Fibre 0.7g, Sodium 5mg.
For another chilled treat, in a food processor, puree pulp from half a watermelon along with 1/4 cup (50 mL) each vodka and sugar in 2 or 3 batches. Pour into a large, shallow plastic or freezer-safe dish, preferably with a lid. To perk up flavour, add a spoonful or two of orange liqueur and/or lime juice. Add only a little at a time, tasting after each addition. Cover with lid, plastic wrap or foil. Place at the back of the freezer until firm to the touch. This will take at least 3 hours. Keep frozen up to 2 weeks. To serve, scrape a wide metal spoon across top of frozen mixture, forming more of a granita texture. Or turn entire frozen block onto a chopping board. Cut into large pieces and pulse in food processor just until as fine as you like. Spoon into dessert dishes. Add a sprig of fresh mint. Serves 8
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