Watermelon-Cucumber Cooler

 

Juicy watermelon and cucumber plus vodka add up to a refreshing summer cocktail. Lime juice and honey provide the right balance of tart and sweet to this festive drink.

Everyday Food, July/August 2010

• Yield Serves 4

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Ingredients

• 5 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 1/2 pounds)
• 1 large English cucumber, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from 2 limes)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2/3 cup vodka
• Ice
• Cucumber slices, for garnish

Directions

1. Set a large fine-mesh sieve over a large bowl or pitcher. In a food processor or blender, puree watermelon. Pour watermelon puree through sieve, pressing on solids with a rubber spatula (you should have about 2 cups juice). Puree English cucumber and pour through sieve into watermelon juice.
   
2. In a small bowl or measuring cup, stir together lime juice and honey. Add to watermelon and cucumber juices, along with vodka. Adjust sweetness with more honey if desired. To serve, fill four glasses with ice and top each with cocktail. Garnish with cucumber slices.