sparkling watermelon-lime refresher

what's better on a hot, summer day than something cold and refreshing to sip on in the sun? everyone loves eating watermelon, but it's fun when there's a different way to eat and serve it: frozen watermelon 'ice cube' balls! this is a beautiful, fun and festive drink you can serve at your next summer BBQ or pool party requiring only a few simple ingredients! plus it's good for you, containing no added sugars plus all of the good de-bloating benefits from watermelon!



what you'll need:

• 1 bottle sparkling water
• 1 small watermelon
• limes [at least 2]
• melon baller
• lemon/lime juicer
• cutting board
• large knife
• large bowl
• strainer
• 2 glasses/cups
• straws [optional]

1 // begin by cutting the watermelon in half. 


2 // place the watermelon in the large bowl to prevent losing any of those precious juices. begin scooping small balls of water melon using the melon baller. place them on a plate. these will become watermelon ice cubes [or balls]! when finished, place the watermelon balls in the freezer for at least and hour or two, until they are frozen. for best results freeze them overnight, covered. 


3 // while those are freezing, mash whats left of the melon flesh with a fork, scraping it from the rind and producing as much juice as possible. [warning: it gets messy] then strain the juice from the flesh and remove all seeds. pour into a pitcher and refrigerate.


4 // when you're ready to make your drinks, remove watermelon balls from the freezer and place a few in the glasses the drinks will be made in. the more the better! [we only made 2 drinks, but i think there is enough ingredients in this recipe for at least 4.]


5 // next, juice one half of a lime into each glass over the frozen watermelon balls.



6 // then pour the sparkling water into each glass about 2/3 of the way full.

7 // finish off the last 1/3 with the fresh, chilled watermelon juice.



8 // garnish with a slice of lime in the glass or on the rim, and add a straw for sipping!



then enjoy! this is seriously so incredibly refreshing and light. not too sweet and not too tart. it's the perfect combination, plus it doesn't become watered down, because when the "ice" melts, you get to eat the sweet watermelon balls! yum!



i hope you try this easy, healthy summer treat! let me know if you try any other combinations of frozen fruit and juices!

x's + o's
kaitlin elaine

[thanks ariana babcock for these photos!]