Every year, my husband and I come up with a punch that we will mix up and on beach trips. One year it was simply mango-orange Tropicana Twister and rum, while another year it was a complex concoction of guava, pineapple, strawberry, banana, and rum. Regardless of the number of ingredients or liquor used, we always aim for it to be served over ice, refreshing, and fruit based. Up until this week, we hadn’t even begun considering this summer’s beach drink.  In fact, this year’s drink happened kind of accidentally.

2016 Summer Watermelon Punch

**recipe can be doubled and tripled if needed 😉

4 c. watermelon chunks

3/4 c. vodka

1/4 c. lemon juice

3 TBSP finely granulated sugar (superfine)

Tonic water

sprigs of mint

In a pitcher, crush watermelon chunks with your hands. Remove any seeds you may find. Add vodka, lemon juice, and sugar.  Stir or if possible, pour into a sealed container and shake vigorously. Pour over ice, top with a splash of tonic water and a sprig of mint.