This is a delicious alternative to the standard Margarita mix you buy from the store. Perfect for a summer refresher, and even more perfect when the cantaloupe is less than ripe–and refuses to ripen, because now you can use it for something other than the compost pile. Add a sprig of mint, it you please, and it becomes a Melon Margarita Mint Julep — we’re in the south now, honey.
1/2 cantaloupe, seeded, peeled and cut into 1″ cubes
1/2 cup simple syrup
3-4 T fresh lime juice (juice of a large lime)
1 cup water
12 ice cubes
3-4 shots of good quality Tequila
Combine all ingredients except the liquor in a blender and puree until smooth on high speed. Add the Tequila and blend for a second or two until mixed in. Pour into Margarita or red wine glasses. If you like a salted rim, rub the rim with lime, then turn it over and dip the rim into a cooled simple syrup, just enough to coat the edge, then dip the rim into plate of Kosher salt until the rim is coated. Invert and pour in the liquid.
Serves 4.
Simple syrup: Put 1/2 cup of sugar and a 1/2 cup of water into a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until sugar melts and liquid is clear and begins to come to a simmer.
I’m also going to try this with a honeydew melon!
