Watermelon is one of my favorite fruits. It is something I look forward to every summer. It is the perfect summer treat. Ethan and I will always have some cut up in the refrigerator ready for snacking. Our dogs, Riley and Charlie, love it too. Last summer when Riley was having some health issues and we needed to keep him hydrated, watermelon was just the thing. With the amount of watermelon we buy, we are so grateful that grocery stores in New York City deliver so we don’t have to carry them home with us.
A few weeks ago I posted a recipe for a cocktail called The Squawker. Ethan and I created it for the fundraiser we hosted for Our Hen House. We make The Squawker with a base of watermelon and strawberry. I took that same idea and decided to try making a sangria with the pureed fruit. The result was spectacular. Our Watermelon Sangria, tastes amazing. It is a perfect refresher on a hot summer day. However, like any good sangria, it is potent, but the alcohol is barely noticeable. It is easy to drink more than you think you are. Luckily, we live in Brooklyn, so we don’t have to worry about driving. Enjoy this delightful summertime beverage at your next barbecue. Make a lot, because it will go fast. Please, drink responsibly and DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients:
4 cups cubed seedless watermelon
1 pound strawberries, stems removed
½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 (750 milliliter) bottle Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc or other light white wine
1 cup strawberry vodka, (or raspberry)
½ cup triple sec or Cointreau
½ cup simple syrup*
1 medium lemon, sliced
1 orange, sliced
1 cup blueberries
Instructions:
1. Place watermelon cubes and strawberries in a blender. Blend on high until very smooth, about 3 minutes, and pour into a large pitcher.
2. Add the wine, strawberry vodka, triple sec, and simple syrup into the pitcher.
3. Stir to combine.
4. Place lemon slices, orange slices, and blueberries into the pitcher and stir to combine again.
5. Place in the fridge until ready for use!
*Simple syrup is equal parts sugar and water. For a quick simple syrup, place 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup water into a glass, microwave safe measuring cup. Microwave for one minute and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
