📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Gin
Alcohol 22%
Calories 200 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 20g
Prep time 5 minutes
The Watermelon Negroni is a refreshing twist on the classic Negroni cocktail, combining the bitterness of Campari with the sweetness of watermelon. This drink is perfect for summer, providing a burst of fruity flavors that can make any hot day more enjoyable. In this article, we’ll explore the history, taste, ingredients, and even some fun variations of the Watermelon Negroni. Ready to dive into the world of this delightful cocktail? Let’s go! ⬇️
History
The Watermelon Negroni is a modern twist on the traditional Negroni, which originated in Italy in 1919. It was created to add a refreshing, fruity element to the classic bitter cocktail. This version gained popularity in recent years, especially during the summer months.
- The original Negroni was named after Count Camillo Negroni who asked for a stronger version of his favorite cocktail, the Americano.
- The Watermelon Negroni was first popularized in bars and restaurants as a seasonal summer drink.
- Its vibrant color and refreshing taste make it a favorite at summer parties and gatherings.
The taste of a Watermelon Negroni?
A Watermelon Negroni has a delightful balance of bitter and sweet flavors. The bitterness of the Campari is beautifully complemented by the juicy, sweet taste of watermelon.
I personally love drinking Watermelon Negronis because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.
Interesting facts about Watermelon Negroni
- Watermelon Negronis are often garnished with fresh watermelon slices for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
- Some variations of the Watermelon Negroni include a splash of soda water for added fizz.
- It’s a popular choice for summer weddings and outdoor events due to its vibrant color and refreshing taste.
Ingredients 📃
- Gin: 1 oz (30 ml)
- Campari: 1 oz (30 ml)
- Sweet Vermouth: 1 oz (30 ml)
- Watermelon Juice: 2 oz (60 ml)
- Ice: As needed
- Watermelon Slice: For garnish
A Watermelon Negroni is best served in a **rocks glass**, as it allows the drink to stay cool while showcasing its vibrant color. Alternatively, a **highball glass** can also be used for a more elongated presentation.
Recipe. How to make Watermelon Negroni 🍹
- Fill a **shaker** with *ice*.
- Add *1 oz (30 ml)* of **gin**, *1 oz (30 ml)* of **Campari**, and *1 oz (30 ml)* of **sweet vermouth** to the shaker.
- Pour in *2 oz (60 ml)* of **watermelon juice**.
- Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a **rocks glass** filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a **slice of watermelon** and serve immediately.
While delicious, the Watermelon Negroni can be high in sugar and calories due to the sweet vermouth and watermelon juice. For a healthier version, you can use natural sweeteners or fresh watermelon puree with no added sugar.
Food Pairings
Certain foods complement the flavors of a Watermelon Negroni beautifully.
Grilled Shrimp
The smoky, savory taste of grilled shrimp pairs perfectly with the fruity and slightly bitter notes of a Watermelon Negroni.
Caprese Salad
The fresh, tangy flavors of tomatoes and mozzarella in a Caprese Salad match wonderfully with the refreshing watermelon in the cocktail.
Prosciutto and Melon
The salty prosciutto balances the sweetness of the watermelon, creating a delightful contrast that enhances the drink’s flavors.
I really enjoy the taste of Watermelon Negronis—the fruity sweetness and slight bitterness make it a perfect drink for relaxing after a long week.
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Bartender Advice
- *Use fresh watermelon juice* for the best flavor.
- *Chill your glassware* before serving to keep the drink cold longer.
- *Garnish with a fresh watermelon slice* for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Watermelon Negroni, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Watermelon Negroni
- Gin: Can be replaced with vodka for a smoother taste.
- Sweet Vermouth: Can be swapped for dry vermouth for a less sweet version.
- Watermelon Juice: Try using fresh watermelon puree for a thicker consistency.
Watermelon Negroni Variations
Spicy Watermelon Negroni
- Ingredients: Gin, Campari, Sweet Vermouth, Watermelon Juice, Jalapeño Slice
- Recipe: Add a slice of jalapeño to the shaker for a spicy kick.
Watermelon Negroni Spritz
- Ingredients: Gin, Campari, Sweet Vermouth, Watermelon Juice, Soda Water
- Recipe: Add a splash of soda water for a fizzy twist.
Minty Watermelon Negroni
- Ingredients: Gin, Campari, Sweet Vermouth, Watermelon Juice, Fresh Mint Leaves
- Recipe: Muddle fresh mint leaves in the shaker before adding the other ingredients.
For a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth with sparkling water and a splash of lime juice for a refreshing Virgin Watermelon Negroni.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Watermelon Negroni a strong drink?
Yes, the Watermelon Negroni is quite strong due to the gin and Campari, but the watermelon juice adds a refreshing sweetness that balances it out.
Can I make a Watermelon Negroni in advance?
You can prepare the mixture ahead of time, but it’s best to add the ice and watermelon garnish just before serving.
What type of gin works best in a Watermelon Negroni?
A London Dry gin is ideal as it has a clean, crisp flavor that complements the other ingredients well.
Can I use bottled watermelon juice?
Fresh watermelon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used if fresh is not available.
How do I make a less bitter Watermelon Negroni?
You can reduce the amount of Campari or use a sweeter vermouth to make the drink less bitter.
What other fruits can I use instead of watermelon?
You can experiment with other fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a different twist on the classic Watermelon Negroni.
