Episode 2.26 - 33.12 Martini with Watermelon and Mint

Leftover Watermelon from the 4th?   Listen as Amy, Food Scientist, and I create this amazing and refreshing drink!33.12 Martini with Watermelon and Mint5 oz. Watermelon puree3 oz. Vodka1 oz. Simple syrup (or agave syrup)Fresh mint leaves1 1/2 oz. fresh squeezed lime juice (2 limes)2 shakes of saltLime sparking water1 1/4 cup granulated cane sugarFresh grated lime zest Simple syrup – the typical recipe is 1 cup of water and 1 cup of granulated sugar, but I only use ¾ cup sugar to 1 cup of water.   Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and add the sugar.   Stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved, then turn off the heat.  This should only take about 5 minutes.   Watermelon Puree – cut all green and white pieces from the red fruit.  In a blender, fill with the red pieces, almost to the top.  Cover and pulse a few times, until all chunks are gone.  Place a fine mesh strainer over a large bowl and pour the puree into the strainer.  With a spoon, press the puree through the strainer, into the large bowl.  Discard the mesh and seeds left in the strainer.Prepare the glass – Zest the limes into a medium-sized bowl.   Add 1/4 cup of the sugar and mix.  In a separate medium-sized bowl, add the juice of 1/2 lime.  Dip the martini glass into the lime juice, then into the zest/sugar mixture.  Prepare the drink - in a large pitcher, add the puree, vodka, simple syrup, salt, and remaining lime juice.  Mix to combine.  Add 1-2 leaves of the fresh mint and muddle in the glass.   Add the drink mixture and stir.  Add 2-3 oz. of the sparkling water and stir.  Garnish with a slice of watermelon and a fresh leaf of mint.  Enjoy!#italiancooking  #letsgetcooking #cookingclass #foodblogger #foodie  #giasitaliankitchen  Visit our YouTube channel to see dozens of our cooking episodes.Check out our website for delicious recipes, upcoming events, and more!