recipe: watermelon lime and mint margarita

Directions to make the simple syrup:
1⁄2 C water
1⁄2 C sugar
3⁄4 C chopped mint
1-1⁄2 C fresh watermelon puree
1 C fresh lime juice
1 C grand marnier or triple sec
2 C 100% agave tequila
garnish:
watermelon balls
lime wedges

In a small sauce pan combine the water, sugar and mint and stir. Bring the mixture to a simmer and dissolve the sugar, about 7 minutes.

Allow the mixture to cool completely. Once the mixture has cooled, strain the mint from the simple syrup and set aside.

Directions to make a margarita:
1 tblsp of the mint simple syrup
3 tblsp watermelon
2 tblsp lime juice
2 tblsp orange liqueur
1⁄4 C tequilla
In a cocktail shaker combine all the ingredients and fill the rest with ice.

Shake the drink until cold and fully combined and pour into a salt rimmed glass with ice.

Serve very cold and garnish with melon balls and lime wedges. Repeat until all the margaritas have been made—serves 6-8.

Adam’s hints:
—the key to a really good party is all about the prep work.
—look over the list of things you want to serve to see where you can save time the day of the party by making them in advance.
—most dips and dressing are even better made the day before since flavors are allowed to blend or marinate.