February 27, 2022

Watermelon Martini (or Mocktail!)

Written by Bruce and Dina Miller in Cocktails, Featured, Vodka

watermelon martini with watermelon wedge and watermelon in backround

A watermelon martini is the perfect taste of summer in our home. I made my first one years ago when we moved into our new house. We spent a lot of time planning and building this house, and one thing I really wanted was a big pantry where I could easily make cocktails. Now, our pantry is like a mini bar, a place to store things, and also a coffee nook! It’s so convenient because while Bruce is cooking in the kitchen, I can be in the pantry cutting up fresh watermelon and making delicious watermelon cocktails!

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We call this cocktail the “Wa-Tini,” and it’s the first fruity martini I ever made. The combination of fresh watermelon and vodka or gin is just perfect for the summer!

This watermelon martini recipe is super easy and can be made for just one martini, but you can also make a whole pitcher if you like. The key is to use 2 parts vodka, 1 part lime juice, and 1 part Cointreau-add this to some cubed fresh watermelon. But, feel free to switch up the alcohol to rum or gin if you prefer, and adjust the proportions to suit your taste. If you decide to try this watermelon martini recipe, we’d love to hear what you think! It’s a refreshing and delightful way to enjoy the freshness of watermelon in a simple cocktail. And don’t forget you can make this a mocktail for the kiddos!

watermelon martini with a watermelon wedge and a watermelon in background — WATERMELON MARTINI

Why we love these martinis:

Freshly made martinis taste really good because they use fresh, high-quality ingredients. When you mix these ingredients carefully, it makes the cocktail smooth and delicious. You can customize it to your liking. It looks beautiful too, with garnishes adding a special touch. When someone takes the time to make it for you, it becomes a wonderful experience you’ll enjoy and remember. All these things together make freshly made martinis really, really good!

Can I make this a spicy martini?

Absolutely! If you want to add a spicy kick to your watermelon martini, there are two delicious ways to do it. First, you can use a fresh jalapeño garnish. Simply slice a fresh jalapeño pepper and place a few slices on the rim of the martini glass or float them on top of the drink. As you take each sip, the jalapeño will infuse its spicy flavor into the cocktail, creating a zesty and invigorating twist to the sweet watermelon taste. Another way to add spiciness is by dipping the watermelon slice in Tajin seasoning before using it as a garnish. Tajin is a flavorful mix of chili, lime, and salt, which pairs wonderfully with the juicy sweetness of watermelon. The combination of the Tajin-coated watermelon and the watermelon martini creates a perfect balance of spicy and refreshing, making it a delightful and memorable cocktail experience. Cheers to enjoying the spicy side of watermelon martinis!

Can you freeze watermelon?

Yes! After cutting the fruit, arrange it in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and freeze for several hours until solid. Once frozen, place the watermelon in a bag for long term storage. It is perfect for blended drinks, or to simply add to a crisp glass of white wine!

Can I make this a Mocktail?

Yes! If you love a good mocktail, leave out the vodka, and sub out fresh squeased orange juice instead of Cointreau. I like to serve the mocktail over ice with a bit of soda water over the top! So refreshing! It is a fun drink served with a straw in a Mason jar!

watermelon martini mocktail in a mason glass with a straw

Look for Seedless Watermelon

When it comes to taste and texture, seedless watermelons do not disappoint. They offer a succulent, juicy flesh with a sweetness that’s hard to resist. The absence of seeds means no interruptions to your enjoyment, allowing you to relish every bite without the need for spitting out or picking through the fruit.

Seedless watermelon varieties are a product of careful cultivation and selective breeding. Through a process called triploidization, scientists have developed seedless varieties by crossing watermelons with different ploidy levels. These varieties are generally considered to be hybrid cultivars and are favored for their convenience and consistent taste.

Best time to buy seedless watermelon

While seedless watermelon are available in some regions year-round, their peak season typically aligns with the summer months, from May to September, depending on your location. During this time, you’ll find an abundance of seedless watermelon varieties in grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and roadside stands.

Tips to selecting & storing a flavorful watermelon:

To ensure you’re selecting the freshest and ripest seedless watermelons, here are a few tips to keep in mind. Look for watermelons that have a uniform shape and feel heavy for their size. A firm, symmetrical melon with a dull rind (rather than shiny) is a good indicator of ripeness. Additionally, tap the watermelon gently; if you hear a deep, resonating sound, it’s likely a sign that it’s full of delicious, juicy goodness.

Once you’ve brought home your seedless watermelon, it’s best to store it in a cool and dry place, such as the refrigerator. This will help preserve its crispness and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply slice it up and let the taste of summer envelop your senses.

So, there you have it—seedless watermelon varieties, the perfect companions for lazy summer days. With their abundant sweetness and the absence of bothersome seeds, they offer a hassle-free way to enjoy this beloved fruit. Remember to keep an eye out for them during their peak season and treat yourself to their juicy splendor, and a crisp watermelon martini!