This pretty pink cocktail would be perfect for a bridal shower luncheon. Any leftover pureed juice is refreshing on its own.

Makes 4 servings

ACTIVE TIME: 10 minutes

TOTAL TIME: 45 minutes

EASE OF PREPARATION: Easy

5 cups diced watermelon, divided
6 ounces gin, divided
8 tablespoons lime juice, divided
1 1/3 cups ginger ale, divided
Lime wedges for garnish

1. Freeze 1 cup watermelon for garnish. Puree the remaining 4 cups watermelon. Strain; divide the juice among 4 ice-filled glasses.
2. Top each with 1 1/2 ounces gin, 2 tablespoons lime juice and 1/3 cup ginger ale. Garnish with the frozen watermelon and lime wedges.
Non-alcoholic variation: Omit the gin.

NUTRITION INFORMATION: Per cocktail: 153 calories; 0 g fat (0 g sat, 0 g mono); 0 mg cholesterol; 14 g carbohydrate; 1 g protein; 1 g fiber; 4 mg sodium; 180 mg potassium.

Per mocktail: 54 calories; 0 g fat (0 g sat, 0 g mono); 0 mg cholesterol; 14 g carbohydrate; 1 g protein; 1 g fiber; 3 mg sodium; 179 mg potassium.

Nutrition bonus: Vitamin C (25% daily value), Vitamin A (17% dv), antioxidants (lycopene and other cartenoids).


1 Carbohydrate Serving

Exchanges: 1 fruit

I have made this in bulk - basically enough for 50 people - the one thing I did different was put the container in the freezer instead of making the melon balls - I kept stirring so that it would not get rock hard - because of the Gin it doesn't freeze completely but does tend to separate -so I stir often to make a slushy. Mmmmmmm it was wonderful - everyone enjoyed it.

Anonymous, Quad City, IL

I made these for a party last night, and they were a huge hit, this is a great, refreshing summer drink and not too sweet to boot!

, Knoxville, TN

We served this to friends at a summer cookout, and it was a huge hit. Perfect on a hot summer day.

Anonymous, Essex, VT