Description
A refreshing, zero-added-sugar drink made with blended watermelon, fresh basil, and lime, topped with sparkling water. It takes only 5 minutes to prepare and serves as a healthy alternative to soda.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups cubed watermelon (about 600g)
- 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves (about 30g)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 tablespoon agave nectar or honey (optional, to taste)
- 1.5 cups sparkling water
- Ice cubes
- Extra basil sprig for garnish
Instructions
- Cut watermelon into cubes, removing rind and large seeds. Ensure you have about 4 cups of flesh.
- Add watermelon cubes, fresh basil leaves, and lime juice to a blender. Add agave or honey only if the watermelon is not sweet enough.
- Blend on high for 30-45 seconds until the mixture is completely smooth and pale green-pink.
- Place a fresh basil sprig in the bottom of a highball or Collins glass. Gently muddle the sprig to release essential oils.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes.
- Pour 3-4 tablespoons of the watermelon-basil puree into the glass over the ice.
- Top the glass with sparkling water, pouring slowly to preserve carbonation.
- Gently stir to mix the puree with the sparkling water. Serve immediately with a straw.
Notes
For best results, chill the watermelon cubes in the fridge for an hour before blending. Do not over-muddle the basil garnish as it can become bitter. The puree can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, but do not freeze it with the basil inside. For parties, keep the puree and sparkling water separate until serving to maintain fizz.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 16
- Sodium: 5
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 1
Keywords: watermelon, basil, sparkling water, healthy drink, zero sugar, summer drink, refreshing, non-alcoholic, mocktail, quick recipe