Watermelon Balls with Lime and Mint Syrup
A chilled, make-ahead fruit salad of watermelon scooped into balls and tossed with lime zest, lime juice, and a mint-infused simple syrup you sweeten to taste. Add vodka, rum, or tequila for spiked watermelon balls.
Servings: 4
Calories: 159kcal
Ingredients
Watermelon Balls
- 4 - 5 cups of seedless watermelon about one personal sized watermelon
- ½ teaspoon lime zest
- juice of half a lime
Mint Simple Syrup
- ¼ cup sugar
- ¼ cup water
- 2 sprigs of mint about 1/8 cup
Optional
- ⅛ cup vodka adjust amount to your liking; can substitute with rum or tequila
Instructions
Mint Simple Syrup
- Add the sugar and water to a small saucepan and heat until the sugar dissolves and the syrup comes to a simmer.
- Remove from the heat, add the mint, and cover with a lid. Let the mint steep until the syrup cools, then remove the mint.
Assemble
- Using a melon baller, scoop the watermelon into a large bowl. To save time, cut into cubes instead.
- Taste the watermelon, then add mint simple syrup. Start with 2 Tablespoons and adjust to your liking.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes and up to 1 day. The longer it soaks, the more flavorful the watermelon gets.
- Right before serving, taste and adjust with more syrup or alcohol. Serve cold, garnished with a sprig of mint and a slice of lime.
Notes
- Sweetness: Watermelon sweetness varies. Taste before adding syrup, and add it gradually.
- Make ahead: Soak for up to 1 day. Any longer and the watermelon turns too soft.
- Released juices: The watermelon releases juice as it chills. Re-taste right before serving and adjust with more syrup or alcohol.
- Syrup storage: Store the mint simple syrup in the fridge for up to 5 days. Discard if cloudy or if the color changes.
- Watermelon size: A regular-sized watermelon has slightly softer flesh that is easier to scoop.
- For serving: Thread the balls onto skewers and serve in wine glasses for parties.
Nutrition
Calories: 159kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 1g | Sodium: 1mg | Sugar: 12g