Watermelon is the quintessential summer fruit so it would make sense it has a day in August designated to honoring it. So, how about some delicious recipes for National Watermelon Day?
I absolutely love the watermelon, feta and mint salad from Food&Wine Magazine. It’s one I’ve used for years. The combination results in a little bit of everything including sweet and salty flavors, in addition to a touch of heat.
The Dressing is:
- 1/3 cup EVOO
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon Tabasco
- 1.2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Whisk it all together in a big bowl. Last but not least, add:
- Chilled watermelon, 8-pound, scooped into balls or cut into 1 1/2 inch chunks
- 1/2 pound crumbled feta (2 cups)
- 1 1/4 cups pitted Kalamata olivcs, coarsely chopped
- 1 small sweet onion, cut into 1/2 niche dice
- 1 cup coarsely chopped mint leaves
It might sound odd at first glance. However, I think you will love it!
Cocktails
Next up, cocktails. Using watermelon in a cocktail is so good, however, it can be hard. Hard only because if you don’t strain it well, you’ll end up with little bits of the fruit and not everyone likes texture their drinks with texture.
Watermelon Cooler cocktail recipe from Nolet’s Gin for National Watermelon Day
The folks from Molet’s sent me this recipe for a Watermelon Cooler that sounds deliciously refreshing.
- 1.5 oz. NOLET’S Silver Gin
- 0.5 oz. Elderflower Liqueur
- 0.5 oz. Lemon Juice
- 0.5 cup Fresh Watermelon
- 4 Basil Leaves
Muddle basil and watermelon in the bottom of a shaker. Add ice and all other ingredients, and shake until chilled. Finally, strain into a balloon glass. Last but not least, garnish with a basil leaf.
Have fun trying these recipes for National Watermelon Day. And you like coconut, try this recipe. It’s another nice summer cocktail. Also good for dessert year round.
One final reminder, always remember to drink responsibly
