Rosemary infused simple syrup gives this cocktail an unexpected taste that balances out the lime and salt perfectly. Plus adding sparkling water, dilutes the watermelon puree just enough to enjoy this as a drink, rather than as a shot. The little watermelon stars make this cocktail 'Martha' status, and are sure to impress your guests!
ROSEMARY WATERMELON AGUA FRESCA
Ingredients:
Rosemary Watermelon Agua Fresca | Boxwood Avenue
1 ripe watermelon, rind removed and sliced into 1 in. rounds
3 large sprigs rosemary, plus 2 for garnish
1/2 c. granulated sugar
1/2 c. water
1 liter sparkling water (I used watermelon-lime flavor, or substitute with soda or tonic)
1.5 c. vodka (or tequila)
sea salt to taste
juice from 4 limes, plus slices for garnish
Step 1: In a small saucepan, dissolve 1/2 c. sugar into 1/2 c. water. Once dissolved, add a few rosemary sprigs. Let this barely simmer while you make the rest of the cocktail (at least 10 minutes).
Step 2: Remove watermelon rind, and slice the fruit into 1 inch rounds. Use a star cookie cutter to cut shapes of watermelon from the rounds. Place shapes in a bowl, and put in freezer for the time being.
Step 3: Place the watermelon remains into a blender and puree until smooth. Pour the puree over a sieve (or coffee filter) into a pitcher. Discard the remaining watermelon foam. Remove the rosemary simple syrup from the stove and allow to cool.
Step 4: Pour the soda water and lime juice into the watermelon puree, then mix in the alcohol and simple syrup. Add sea salt to taste.
Step 5: Remove watermelon stars from the freezer and use as ice cubes or for garnish.
Step 6: If you'd like, you can salt the rim of the glasses. Add lime slices, rosemary sprigs, watermelon garnishes, and enjoy!