Things are heating up around here. I mean really heating up. Bring on the cocktails (watermelon + limeade + vodka = good!) Ask anyone who knows me well...I don't "do" hot temperatures. In fact, the only place I can imagine sitting when it's 95+ degrees is directly on top of the air-conditioning vent. It's not pretty.
I eat things that require opening the fridge multiple times (cool breeze) and I turn on the oven only if someone is threatening me with something like, "Make me a pizza or your cat gets it!" Just for the record, that's never actually happened. But yeah...I'd crank the oven to 500 degrees to save the kitty, even on a 100 degree day.
Cold drinks are a sure-fire remedy to the steamy days and this watermelon limeade cocktail, with a splash of vodka, does the trick nicely. Not only is it cold, but it takes about 5 minutes to make, from start to finish.
One of our favorite summertime cocktails is an icy Watermelon Mojito. This vodka cocktail is a riff on the mojito recipe. However, since I'm watching my sugar intake, I left out the simple syrup. I promise that you won't miss it if you use a ripe watermelon, one with plenty of natural sweetness. Could this drink be made into a kid-friendly drink? Of course! Just leave out the vodka. Scroll down for the recipe.
TV Fun:
Thursday afternoon was a tad bit different than usual weekday afternoons around here. A producer (thanks, Jane!) and cameraman (you were great, Thompson!) from our local NBC's affiliate (KSL) daytime show, Studio 5, came to our home to film some clips about my health and weight loss journey.
The afternoon started with Thompson filming my good friend (and running partner), Staci and I running down the street in our workout clothes. Staci then got the "up close and personal" treatment in front of the camera while she answered questions and talked about the app she introduced me to (MyFitnessPal) that got me started on this journey in the first place. You rocked it, Stace!
My husband, Steve, and both of our boys got their time in front of the camera too, giving sweet and thoughtful answers about the whole journey and the parts they played in helping me reach my goal. xoxo
Pulling their thoughts together.
The best part, however, was the family soccer game we played in the backyard, with the camera rolling as we dribbled, shot and giggled.
The segment will be airing in July or August. I'll be sure to post a link once it's available.
Back to the cocktail!
The recipe:
In a blender, combine the watermelon cubes, lime juice and vodka. Puree until smooth.
Fill two collins glasses with ice, pour the watermelon cocktail over top and garnish with lime slices. Serve and sip.
Other summertime cocktails:
Raspberry Mojito
Fresh Strawberry Tom Collins Cocktail
Rum Punch with Ginger Beer & Pineapple Juice
Printable Recipe
Watermelon Limeade Vodka Cooler Recipe
Ingredients
- ¼ large watermelon cut into cubes
- juice of 2 limes
- 4 ounces vodka
- ice
- lime slices for garnish
Instructions
- In a blender, combine the watermelon cubes, lime juice and vodka.
- Puree until smooth.
- Fill two collins glass with ice and pour the watermelon cooler over top. Garnish with lime slices. Serve.
Nutrition
Disclosure: I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for me to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
Sylvie @ Gourmande in the Kitchen
Can't wait to see the segment Dara, you're a natural on camera!
Rachel @ Baked by Rachel
Congrats on the feature, Dara! So cool. And this drink... sheesh it just screams summer!
Emilie @ Emilie's Enjoyables
such a cool opportunity Dara! You look great 🙂
JulieD
This looks so good & refreshing!! I have to make these at our next et together!
thyme (Sarah)
I've fixed this drink before. I love the watermelon flavor in it. You are right. It is hot, hot, hot...we're in TX. And....I like it not, not, not! Fall is my friend. What a wonderful weight loss journey...we have also nixed the sugar and it has been an amazing change in our weight. Each of us has lost 10 pounds in the last 3 months. Forces us to eat lots of veggies and wrap our sandwiches in big crunchy cabbage leaves.
Liz
I can't wait to see your interview!!! What fun!
And this has got to be the epitome of a summer cocktail....so refreshing and delish!
Caralyn @ glutenfreehappytummy
that sounds so delicious and refreshing! a prefect summer drink! 🙂
kelley
I can't wait to see the segment. You are an incredible inspiration and role model, Dara!
Ali @ Gimme Some Oven
I love it!!! So proud of you and your incredible story. I can only imagine how many people you are going to encourage and inspire!!
Love all of the pics. And this cocktail sounds SO delicious and refreshing! A perfect way to beat this crazy summer heat!!
Kay @ The Church Cook
Congrats on the feature, Dara! Can't wait to see you and your fam! It's heating up here in Savannah, GA, lots of pool time! Have a great weekend!