Watermelon Mojito Slushie

As a fond farewell to summer, I wanted to do one final watermelon project. And without even knowing it, I saved the best till last. This drink turned out to be the most delicious and refreshing cup of yum EVER! Try it and you'll know what I'm talking about.

Let's get to the goods...

For one drink

2 1/4 cups of frozen, cubed seedless watermelon
2 tbsp of light rum
2 tbsp of lime juice
2 tbsp mint syrup (how-to = step 6)
- fresh mint
- white sugar
4 fresh mint leaves

*NOTE: the watermelon needs time to freeze, so it's best to prep the watermelon a day ahead so it can freeze overnight.

Shopping List:

3 small seedless watermelons
2 limes
1 bunch of fresh mint
1 bottle light rum
small bag of sugar

*This amount of fruit will make approx. 4 generous drinks.

Tools:

blender
cutting board
sharp chef's knife
measuring cup
1-2 lrg freezer bags
citrus juicer
small saucepan
stirring spoon
small strainer
small bowl
serving glasses
fun straws!

There are many ways to go about removing the rind from a watermelon. If you have a tried and true method, go ahead and use it. This is my favorite way:

Cut a nice flat slice off of the bottom of each watermelon, so that it can sit upright with lots of stability.

Using a sharp chef's knife follow the curve of the watermelon's surface and remove the rind in strips, until the whole melon is rind free.

Slice and cube each watermelon.

Place the cubes into large freezer bags and place in the freezer overnight.

Take 1/3 of your bunch of washed, fresh mint and remove the leaves from their stems.

Place the leaves in one hand, and clap down on the leaves with the other several times. This is a simple and quick way to release the flavor.

Place the 'clapped' leaves along with 1/2 cup of sugar and 1/2 cup of water in a small saucepan.

Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.

Remove from heat, strain, and let sit to cool to room temperature.

Place in the fridge to cool it further.

Juice enough limes for as many drinks as you'd like to make. Each drink needs 2 tablespoons of juice.

Place all ingredients into a blender.

Blend.

You are now one step closer to deliciousness.

Place your blended drink into a serving glass, add a sprig of mint and a fun straw.

Now put your feet up, lean back in the last few rays of seasonal sunshine and enjoy!!

NOTE: This is also scientifically formulated to give you even more to look forward to for next watermelon season...