Watermelon Cooler with Lime and Mint

A great watermelon cooler starts with well-chilled flesh. Cut the watermelon open, scoop out the flesh with a spoon, and remove the seeds. Cut it into cubes and put them in the freezer for a short while. Cold flesh keeps the flavor fresh and means you need less ice later.

Wash the lime and slice it thinly, setting the slices aside for garnish. Rinse the mint and pull the leaves off the stems. Keep a few of the nicest ones aside to decorate the glasses.

Add the chilled watermelon cubes to the blender, pour in the lime juice, and toss in a handful of mint leaves. Blend for about 30 seconds, until you get a smooth, deeply pink mixture with no lumps.

Taste it and stir in honey to match the sweetness of your watermelon. A younger, less sweet melon will take the full amount, while a ripe one often needs none at all. Blend briefly so the honey dissolves.

Fill the glasses with ice and pour in the finished drink. If you like fresh bubbles, top each glass with chilled soda water and stir gently so the foam does not run over.

Garnish the glasses with a lime slice on the rim and a sprig of mint. Serve right away, while the drink is icy and fragrant with fresh watermelon.