A reinterpretation of the familiar gin and tonic, this cocktail includes fresh watermelon and cucumber juices for a refreshing taste. Hendrick’s, my favorite gin, which is a small-batch Scottish gin that’s infused with the flavor of cucumber and rose petals, is ideal for this recipe!
Watermelon & Cucumber Tonics
makes 8
6 cups cubed seeded watermelon, divided
1/4 cup mint leaves, divided
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, divided
1 English cucumber, peeled, sliced, and divided
2 1/2 cups tonic water, chilled
1 1/4 cups gin
Combine half each of watermelon, mint, juice, and cucumber in a blender or food processor; process until smooth. Line a fine sieve with 4 layers of cheesecloth, allowing cheesecloth to extend over edges; strain watermelon mixture through prepared sieve over a bowl, reserving juice mixture. Gather the edges of the cheesecloth together. Holding cheesecloth over sieve, squeeze to release the remaining juice mixture. Discard solids. Repeat the procedure with the remaining watermelon, mint, juice, and cucumber. If you’re feeling lazy or don’t mind the solids, you can just leave them and skip the straining steps.
Combine 2 1/2 cups juice mixture, tonic water, and gin, stirring well to combine. (Reserve any remaining juice mixture for another use.) Serve over ice. Cheers!
Recipe adapted from Cooking Light
