Watermelon, Lime, and Mint Mocktails for Refreshing Summer Sips (Print version)

Juicy watermelon, fresh lime, mint, and sparkling water make a crisp summer mocktail that is bright, cold, and easy to batch.

# Ingredients:

For the mocktail base

01 - 5 cups (750 g) cold seedless watermelon cubes
02 - 1/3 cup (80 ml) fresh lime juice, from about 3 limes
03 - 12 fresh mint leaves, plus more for garnish
04 - 2 tablespoons agave nectar or simple syrup, plus more to taste
05 - Pinch of fine salt

For serving

06 - 2 cups (480 ml) cold sparkling water
07 - 2 cups ice cubes
08 - Lime wheels, for garnish
09 - Small watermelon wedges, for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Cut the watermelon into cubes and chill until very cold. For a slushier drink, freeze 1 cup of the cubes for 30-60 minutes.
02 - Add the watermelon, lime juice, mint leaves, agave, and salt to a blender. Blend for 30-45 seconds, until smooth and bright pink.
03 - Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher for a smoother drink. Press gently, then discard the pulp or leave it unstrained for more texture.
04 - Add ice to 4 tall glasses. Pour the watermelon base into each glass until about two-thirds full.
05 - Top each glass with cold sparkling water and stir gently once or twice. Garnish with mint sprigs, lime wheels, and small watermelon wedges. Serve right away.

# Good to know:

01 - Best served immediately after adding sparkling water.
02 - The watermelon base can be made up to 24 hours ahead and chilled.
03 - Taste before serving because watermelon sweetness varies.