There’s no better way to beat the heat than with a refreshing cocktail—and few capture the summer vibes quite like a mojito. It’s tart, it’s herbaceous, it’s super-fun to drink, but most importantly, it’s easy to give it your own spin. The classic recipe likely originated in Cuba, but you can also enjoy flavored mojitos like blackberry, Key lime, and watermelon. This version upgrades the classic cocktail with another go-to flavor combination: cucumber and melon.
It makes sense that these two ingredients taste good together. Cucumber and melon are in the same plant family, and each brings their own crisp and fresh flavor to the table. But the best part? They both pair perfectly with lime and mint. A cucumber-melon mojito is the perfect beverage to serve at a party, a picnic, or when you want to cool off on a hot day.
This cocktail uses Midori for a burst of bright melon flavor. If you’re not familiar with this neon green spirit, Midori is a Japanese melon liqueur that became popular stateside in the 1980s. In this mojito, its delicate sweetness balances the tart acidity of the lime juice.
And as if this drink weren’t green enough, we also make our very own cucumber and mint syrup that has a similarly vibrant hue. This recipe makes enough syrup for several cocktails, so you can keep it in the fridge for whenever you’re in the mood for a mojito (AKA all summer long).
Did you try making this? Let us know how it went in the comments!
Yields: 1 serving
Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 10 mins
(100 g.) granulated sugar
water
Persian cucumbers, coarsely grated
packed fresh mint leaves
to 12 fresh mint leaves
white rum
fresh lime juice
Midori
Ice
Soda water, for topping off
Honeydew melon ball and thick Persian cucumber slice, for serving