(Note: this post was originally published on June 11, 2020. It has since been updated with new photos and a few tweaks.)

A Fresh Watermelon Mint Cocktail for Summer

Are you on the hunt for the most perfect summer cocktail? One that's light, bright, fun, and loaded with fresh summer flavors? If so, then I'm happy to report that your quest is complete; this watermelon gin cocktail is everything you've been looking for.

This drink is bursting with summer ingredients. Watermelon is, of course, an iconic summer treat. Lime brightens it up and really makes the watermelon shine. Mint brings in freshness and goes beautifully with the two fruits. It's all complemented by gin, which is complex, floral, and a bit citrusy.

Ready to dive in? Keep reading to learn how to make this summery watermelon cocktail and how to vary it based on your tastes.

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What is a Gimlet?

The Gimlet is a classic prohibition-era gin cocktail that traditionally includes only three ingredients: gin, lime juice, and simple syrup. It's often served in a martini glass or coupe glass, straight-up rather than on the rocks. The typical proportions are usually considered to be 2-2.5 oz gin, 0.5 oz lime juice, and 0.5 oz simple syrup.

For this summery watermelon mint cocktail, you'll keep the gin and lime juice volumes the same, but add a couple ounces of watermelon juice. Since watermelon juice is sweet, you'll omit the simple syrup (although you can certainly add a dash if you prefer a sweeter drink). You'll also muddle some fresh mint into the cocktail.

Side note: if you're into gin cocktails, you'll notice that the inclusion of mint makes this more like a South Side. You can think of it as a Watermelon South Side if you prefer.

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How to Make a Gimlet

Gimlets are easy to make and require just a few ingredients. For a classic gimlet, just combine the ingredients in a shaker, shake with ice, and strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass. For this summery watermelon gin cocktail, the method is the same except that you'll muddle the mint first.

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Watermelon Mint Cocktail Variations

This watermelon cocktail is easily customized based on your tastes, so it's a great option for entertaining. When I make these for a crowd, I like to give people the option of whether they want a smaller, stronger sip or a more refreshing, more hydrating drink. Your choice might depend on what time of day it is, who you're making this for, and what else you're serving.

Here are a few options you can consider:

• Small, strong, straight-up cocktail: Follow the ingredients and directions in the recipe card. You'll use muddled mint, 2 oz gin, 2 oz watermelon juice, and 0.5 oz lime juice. Shake with ice, then serve in a chilled coupe glass.
• Refreshing, hydrating punch: You'll use the same ingredients but in different ratios and serve the drink differently. Opt for muddled mint, 2 oz gin, 4 oz watermelon juice, and 0.5 oz lime juice. Serve it in a tall glass over generous ice.
• Low-alcohol version: Follow the same proportions for the punch version, above, but cut the gin in half. This version would work nicely for a brunch party.
• Mocktail version: Follow the same proportions for the punch version, above, but omit the gin. You could also top the mocktail with some soda water or fizzy coconut water.

Don't you love how versatile this recipe is? Because there are so many options, you'll want to keep coming back to this watermelon gin cocktail all season long.

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Ingredients and Substitutions

Here's what you'll need for this watermelon gin cocktail recipe, as well as some thoughts, tips, and possible substitutions. If you make any substitutions, I'd love to hear about it in the comments section below.

• Fresh mint
  
• Gin
• Watermelon juice. You can either buy fresh-pressed watermelon juice or make your own. There's no need to have a juicer; you can make it at home just by putting cubed watermelon in a blender and then straining the resulting liquid.
• Fresh-squeezed lime juice. Bottled lime juice will not work in a cocktail.
• Garnishes of choice. In the photos here, I've shown this watermelon cocktail garnished with a wheel of lime and a sprig of mint. You can also garnish it with melon balls on a skewer if you really want to make it feel special.

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Closing Thoughts

Everything about this watermelon mint cocktail is just plain fun. It's summery, pink, a bit whimsical, and full of freshness. You can garnish it simply or make it feel celebration-worthy with creative garnishes. It pairs beautifully with summer salads, grilled fare, corn on the cob, and fresh herbs, so it's a perfect drink for a seasonal party.

How will YOU enjoy this pink sip? Perhaps at a BBQ or a potluck? Maybe for a special summer brunch like a bridal shower? Thanks to its versatility, this watermelon cocktail fits into virtually any summer occasion, so it's one you can come back to again and again. Cheers and happy summer!

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Share It!

It makes me so happy to hear from you and see your creations! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think about this recipe. If you post a photo on Instagram, hashtag #TheRogueBrusselSprout and tag me (@TheRogueBrusselSprout) in the post text so that I'm sure to see it.

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As with all my cocktail recipes, please enjoy responsibly!

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Suggested Pairings

Watermelon Nachos with Avocado Sauce‍

Green Goddess Hummus

Vegan Watermelon, Snap Pea, and Mint Salad

Grilled Corn, Snap Pea, and Blueberry Salad

Mint Julep Quinoa Salad