I’m not a professional mixologist, but I do like making a fun cocktail now and then. Especially during the summer, I prefer something fruity and bubbly over my usual red wine. However, I don’t keep a variety of fancy mixers and garnishes on hand, so my cocktails need to be simple. I aim for three ingredients or fewer without the need for muddling or shaking. When I came across Trader Joe’s Sparkling Watermelon Juice, I instantly knew how I would use it. With a can of this at home, all you need is vodka and a lime for a quick summer cocktail that tastes much more elaborate than it actually is.
Made with 100% fresh juice from the best summer fruit, TJ’s Sparkling Watermelon Juice is a great find for easygoing cocktail enthusiasts everywhere and a staple on my summer bar cart. It gives the impression that you spent hours slicing, blending, and straining a watermelon into juice, but Trader Joe’s did all the heavy lifting for you. Moreover, there’s no added sugar or extra artificial flavors, so sipping it feels like enjoying a perfectly ripe slice of watermelon (minus the annoying seeds).
Serving is as simple as pouring watermelon juice into a glass, adding a splash of vodka and a lime squeeze, and voila! You have a fruity, summery drink that’s perfect for enjoying on the patio. For a touch of sophistication, you could garnish it with fresh mint or basil or even top your glass with a watermelon slice. Nonetheless, I find that the basic three ingredients are delicious enough on their own.
However, a word of caution: TJ’s Sparkling Watermelon Juice is a seasonal item, so get your hands on it now to savor this cocktail all summer long. Cheers!
Source: Jessica Bennett for The Everygirl
Trader Joe’s Sparkling Watermelon Juice Cocktail Recipe
Total time: 5 minutes | Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients:
1.5 ounces vodka
Juice from half a lime
1 can Trader Joe’s Sparkling Watermelon Juice
Directions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in 1.5 ounces (one shot glass-full) of vodka.
3. Squeeze in juice from half a lime (You can add more or less lime juice, depending on how tart you like it).
4. Pour in 1 can of watermelon juice and stir to mix.
5. Head immediately to a patio to soak up summer, cocktail in hand.
