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Refreshing Watermelon Basil Mojito

Watermelon Basil Mojito - featured image

A quick and easy summer cocktail featuring fresh watermelon juice and basil for a unique twist on the classic mojito. Perfectly refreshing with a bright, herbal flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (300g) seedless watermelon cubes, blended or juiced fresh
  • 810 fresh basil leaves, gently torn or muddled
  • 1 large lime, juiced (about 1 oz or 30 ml)
  • 2 oz (60 ml) white rum (adjust to taste)
  • 12 teaspoons simple syrup (optional)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) soda water
  • Ice cubes as needed
  • Fresh basil sprig for garnish
  • Optional: lime wheel for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Watermelon Juice: Blend about 2 cups (300g) of seedless watermelon cubes until smooth, about 30 seconds. Strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove pulp and seeds, yielding about ¾ cup (180 ml) juice per serving.
  2. Muddle the Basil and Lime: In a glass, place 8-10 fresh basil leaves and the juice of 1 lime (about 1 oz or 30 ml). Gently muddle with a muddler or back of a spoon to release aroma without shredding leaves, about 1 minute.
  3. Add Rum and Simple Syrup: Pour in 2 oz (60 ml) white rum and 1-2 teaspoons simple syrup depending on sweetness preference. Stir gently to combine.
  4. Assemble the Drink: Fill the glass with ice cubes to the top, add strained watermelon juice, then top with ½ cup (120 ml) soda water. Stir gently to blend without flattening fizz.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Add a fresh basil sprig and optionally a thin lime wheel on the rim for visual appeal.

Notes

Gently muddle basil to avoid bitterness. Adjust sweetness with simple syrup based on watermelon sweetness. For a non-alcoholic version, replace rum with sparkling water or lemon-lime soda. Fresh lime juice is preferred over bottled. Prepare watermelon juice up to 24 hours ahead and store refrigerated. Serve immediately for best fizz and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: watermelon mojito, basil mojito, summer cocktail, refreshing drink, easy mojito recipe, watermelon cocktail, basil cocktail