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Refreshing Watermelon Gin Smash with Fresh Basil and Lime

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A light, bright, and refreshing summer cocktail combining juicy watermelon, zesty lime, and fragrant basil with quality gin for a perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 300 grams)
  • 6–8 large fresh basil leaves, washed
  • Juice of 1 large lime (about 2 tablespoons or 30 ml), freshly squeezed
  • 2 ounces (60 ml) gin (recommend Tanqueray or Hendrick’s)
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) simple syrup (homemade or store-bought)
  • Ice cubes (enough to fill shaker and glass)
  • 2–3 ounces (60–90 ml) sparkling water or club soda
  • Optional garnish: extra basil sprigs and a lime wheel

Instructions

  1. Cut about 2 cups (300 grams) of seedless watermelon into small cubes. Set aside a few small chunks for garnish if desired.
  2. In a cocktail shaker, add fresh basil leaves and watermelon cubes. Gently muddle together to release juice and basil oils without shredding the basil.
  3. Add freshly squeezed lime juice and simple syrup to the shaker. Stir gently to combine and adjust sweetness if needed.
  4. Pour in 2 ounces (60 ml) of gin and fill the shaker halfway with ice cubes.
  5. Secure the shaker lid and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to chill and combine the mixture.
  6. Fill a serving glass with fresh ice cubes. Using a strainer, pour the cocktail mixture into the glass, leaving muddled bits behind (optional to pour all in).
  7. Top the glass with 2-3 ounces (60-90 ml) of sparkling water or club soda and stir gently.
  8. Garnish with a sprig of fresh basil and a lime wheel on the rim. Optionally, add a small watermelon cube into the glass. Serve immediately.

Notes

Muddle basil gently to release oils without shredding to avoid bitterness. Use freshly squeezed lime juice for best flavor. Avoid over-shaking to prevent dilution. Quality gin with botanical notes complements the flavors best. Sparkling water adds refreshing fizz; flavored soda water can add a twist. Adjust sweetness with simple syrup or lime juice to taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: watermelon gin smash, summer cocktail, basil cocktail, refreshing drink, lime, gin cocktail, easy cocktail recipe

Find it online: https://daintydine.com/refreshing-watermelon-gin-smash-recipe-with-fresh-basil-and-lime-easy-summer-drink/