Watermelon-Basil Cooler

  • Level: Easy
  • Yield: 1 mocktail
  • Total: 1 hr 15 min (includes cooling time)
  • Active: 15 min
We used nonalcoholic tequila to make this zero-proof take on the margarita. There are several new brands on the market, and like real tequila, each one has a slightly different flavor.
Advertisement

Ingredients

1/2 cup raw sugar

8 fresh basil leaves, plus a small sprig for garnish

4 wide strips lime zest, plus 1 ounce lime juice

1/2 Fresno chile pepper

2 ounces fresh watermelon juice

2 ounces nonalcoholic tequila

Directions

  1. Make the basil syrup: Bring the sugar, basil leaves, lime zest, chile and 1/2 cup water to a simmer in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly, then transfer to a container and refrigerate until cooled, about 1 hour. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve. (The syrup can be refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.)
  2. Stir together 3/4 ounce of the basil syrup, the lime juice, watermelon juice and tequila in a liquid measuring cup. Pour into an ice-filled rocks glass and garnish with a basil sprig.

Cook’s Note

If you can’t find bottled watermelon juice, puree cubed watermelon in a blender until smooth, then strain.

Let's Get Cooking!

Sign up for the Recipe of the Day newsletter to receive editor-picked recipes,tips and videos delivered to your inbox daily. Privacy Policy

Thanks for subscribing to the Recipe of the Day newsletter. Check out all our other great newsletters from Easy Recipes, Healthy Eating Ideas and Chef Recipe Videos.

We're sorry, there was an error signing you up. Please try again later.

Advertisement