WATERMELON WATER. HELLO REFRESHING.

Fruit waters are popular in warm climates like Mexico, but recently they have started to pop up more and more in our North American summer season as well.  Refreshing, light, and versatile, these waters are a new take on the standard lemonade.

At it's most basic, fruit water is really just that - a sweet summer fruit blended with water.  However, depending on preferences and tastes, it can get sweet or sophisticated with just a few additions.

Watermelon really epitomizes summer for me.  It's virtually unavailable and forgotten during our chilly winters, and then it leaps back into the scene come spring, ready to be the star of the party at barbeques, soccer games, street festivals, and basically anytime the sun is shining.

So when the weather suddenly jumped into the humid 30's here, I started thinking about watermelons!  Unfortunately, watermelons are heavy, and it took a few weeks for the giant green fruit to actually make its way into my grocery cart.  Now, it's back to being a bit "fresher" outside again, but I'm still determined to have my watermelon water!

Traditionally, these waters are made by simply mashing the fruit with a fork and mixing it with water, but if you have a blender available, it's much easier that way.  For the most basic version, blend half of a large watermelon with 6-8 cups of water, squeeze in the juice of 2 limes, and serve cold!

For a little more excitement, add some sprigs of mint or basil, and a splash of Perrier (maybe even a splash of vodka if it's an adult event :).  If you prefer a sweeter beverage, just add in some agave syrup when blending.

If you plan on drinking through a straw, you'll need to strain the liquid through a sieve first.  However, if you don't mind a thicker drink, it's just as good as is.

Hello summer!