CocktailRecipes

Watermelon Sour Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

how to make a Watermelon Sour recipe

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Vodka
Alcohol 10%
Calories 180 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 18g
Prep time 3 minutes

If you’re looking to delight your taste buds with a refreshing cocktail, the Watermelon Sour is a must-try! This drink combines the sweet and juicy flavors of watermelon with a tangy twist of lemon, making it perfect for hot summer days. In this article, we’ll explore its history, taste, interesting facts, ingredients, recipe, and more. Ready to dive in? Let’s go! ⬇️

History

The Watermelon Sour cocktail started gaining popularity in the early 2000s. Its refreshing taste made it a favorite at summer parties and beach gatherings. Today, it’s celebrated for its perfect blend of sweet and sour flavors.

  • The name “Watermelon Sour” comes from its main ingredient, watermelon, and the sour twist from lemon juice.
  • It was first popularized in tropical regions, where fresh watermelon is abundant.
  • Over the years, it has become a staple at summer events and barbecues.

The taste of a Watermelon Sour?

A Watermelon Sour tastes like a burst of summer in your mouth. It combines the sweet, juicy flavor of watermelon with the tangy zing of lemon juice.

I personally love drinking Watermelon Sours because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.

Interesting facts about Watermelon Sour

  • Watermelon Sour is often garnished with a slice of watermelon or a sprig of mint.
  • It’s a versatile cocktail that can be easily adapted to personal taste preferences.
  • Watermelon is 92% water, making this drink hydrating as well as delicious.

Ingredients 📃

  • Watermelon Juice: 3 oz (90ml)
  • Lemon Juice: 1 oz (30ml)
  • Simple Syrup: 0.5 oz (15ml)
  • Vodka: 2 oz (60ml)
  • Ice: As needed
  • Watermelon Slice: For garnish

A Watermelon Sour is best served in a **rocks glass**. This glass enhances the experience by keeping the drink chilled and allowing the flavors to blend well. Alternatively, a **highball glass** could also be used.

Recipe. How to make Watermelon Sour 🍹

  1. In a shaker, combine watermelon juice (*3 oz*), lemon juice (*1 oz*), simple syrup (*0.5 oz*), and vodka (*2 oz*).
  2. Add ice and shake well until chilled.
  3. Strain the mixture into a **rocks glass** filled with ice.
  4. Garnish with a watermelon slice and serve immediately.

While the Watermelon Sour is a delightful treat, it’s important to note its sugar content. To make a healthier version, you can use natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup and reduce the amount of simple syrup. Watermelon itself is low in calories and packed with vitamins A and C.

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Food Pairings

Certain foods can enhance the delicious flavors of a Watermelon Sour. Here are some perfect pairings:

Grilled Chicken

The savory and slightly smoky flavor of grilled chicken complements the sweet and tangy notes of a Watermelon Sour.

Shrimp Cocktail

The light, fresh taste of shrimp pairs wonderfully with the refreshing watermelon and citrus flavors.

Fruit Salad

A mix of fresh fruits like berries, pineapple, and melon enhances the natural sweetness of the drink.

I really enjoy the taste of Watermelon Sours—the cool mint and zesty lime 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.
  • Adjust the sweetness to your liking by varying the amount of simple syrup.
  • Garnish creatively to make your drink look as good as it tastes.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Watermelon Sour, 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 Sour

  • Vodka: Can be replaced with gin for a botanical twist.
  • Lemon juice: Can be swapped with lime juice for a different citrus flavor.
  • Simple syrup: Can be substituted with agave syrup for a healthier option.

Watermelon Sour Variations

Mint Watermelon Sour

  • Ingredients: Add fresh mint leaves
  • Recipe: Muddle mint leaves with watermelon juice before shaking

Spicy Watermelon Sour

  • Ingredients: Add a slice of jalapeño
  • Recipe: Shake jalapeño with other ingredients for a spicy kick

Coconut Watermelon Sour

  • Ingredients: Use coconut water instead of simple syrup
  • Recipe: Combine all ingredients and shake well

For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, you can make a Virgin Watermelon Sour by simply omitting the vodka. The result is a refreshing and delightful mocktail perfect for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a Watermelon Sour different from other sour cocktails?

The unique combination of watermelon juice and lemon juice gives it a sweet and tangy flavor that stands out.

Can I use bottled watermelon juice?

Yes, but fresh watermelon juice is recommended for the best taste and freshness.

How can I make a Watermelon Sour less sweet?

Reduce the amount of simple syrup or use a natural sweetener like agave.

Is it possible to make a Watermelon Sour in advance?

You can prepare the juice mixture ahead of time, but it’s best to shake and serve immediately for the freshest taste.

What other fruits can I use to make a similar drink?

You can experiment with other fruits like cantaloupe or honeydew for a different twist.

How do I store leftover Watermelon Sour?

Store the juice mixture in the refrigerator and shake with ice before serving.

Enjoy making your Watermelon Sour and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family! Cheers!

Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer is a seasoned mixology and cocktail recipe writer at CocktailPlans.com. Chris has a deep passion for cocktail creation and mixology, and has been exploring and writing about the world of drinks for over 5 years.
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