WATERMELON LIME GIN AND TONIC

Due to the fact that watermelon season has officially began, this week’s gin and tonic is inspired by the flavors of a juicy watermelon coated in Tajin seasoning: it’s sweet, sour and has the lovliest level of spice.

This drink will be perfect for your next summer barbecue, it’s refreshing, bright and crisp.

INGREDIENTS (1 drink)

FOR THE COCKTAIL:

• 1 oz dry gin
  • for a non-alcoholic version, substitute the gin with 1 oz tonic water / seltzer
• juice of 1/2 lime
• 4-6 mint leaves
• 1 handful cubed watermelon (100 grams)
  • or about 2 oz watermelon juice (if using store bought juice)
• 3 oz tonic water / seltzer
• ice

FOR THE SUGAR RIM:

You will most likely have some leftover of this sugar mix, so if you are making this for a crowd, know that the sugar mix will be enough to coat 3-5 rims.

• 2 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
• zest of 1/2 lime
• 1 lime wedge
• 1 teaspoon Tajin (it works without it as well)

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1

For the sugar mix, zest 1/2 lime and add it to a bowl, alongside the sugar, salt and chili flakes. Massage the zest using your fingers into the mix.

Step 2

Add the gin, watermelon cubes (or juice), mint leaves, lime juice to a jar or cocktail shaker. Crush all the ingredients together using a cocktail muddler.

Step 3

Shake the jar or cocktail shaker vigorously.

Step 4

Run a wedge of lime around the rim of your serving glass then dip the rim in the sugar mixture.

Step 5

Fill the glass with ice, strain the watermelon mixture in the glass and top it all of with tonic water (or seltzer).

Optional step, garnish with a couple slices of lime and 1 sprig of mint.