Watermelon Mojitos

Watermelon mojitos have come to the rescue on a couple hot, hot days -- what a winner for a refreshing, delicious summer cocktail!  The first time I had this drink it was thanks to my brother's girlfriend, Cat, who found a recipe while flipping through Ina Garten's, How Easy Is That? cookbook.  Cat and my brother were visiting from the east coast just in time for 95- 100 degree weather here in California.  I have to give her credit for rallying, despite the sluggish heat, to gather the ingredients and blend together this great cocktail.  

While Ina's recipe was pretty good, it was also very strong and needed to be strained.  We made our own version this time that we plan to return to:  
 

Watermelon Mojitos

Makes 4 (10 - 12 ounce) drinks

Ingredients:

15 - 20 mint leaves, chopped or torn
2 tablespoons simple syrup (or more to taste -- I like mine on the sweet/sour side and the watermelon adds sweetness)
1/2 cup fresh lime juice, divided
2 ounces gold rum

4 ounces vodka (or all rum, if you'd like)

1 cup seedless watermelon, pureed in a blender or food processor (if you have extra, it is lovely straight up, too!)

ice
Directions:

1. In a pitcher or large shaker (my shaker wasn't big enough), muddle the mint, sugar and 1/4 cup lime juice.  
2. Add a couple handfuls of ice, then pour in the rest of the lime juice, rum and watermelon puree.  
3. Shake or stir vigorously.  
4. Strain and serve over ice, with a small slice of watermelon, sprig of mint or slice of lime as garnish.

Enjoy and stay cool!