RECIPE: Refreshing Summertime Sips

These thirst-quenching drinks are perfect for any summertime gathering, and can be made kid appropriate or for adults only.

Watermelon-Mint-Lime Punch:

  • 1/4 cup sugar

  • 1/4 cup lightly packed mint sprigs, plus more for serving

  • 6 cups chopped watermelon

  • 1/3 cup fresh lime juice

  • tequila (optional)

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Cantaloupe-Grapefruit-Basil Punch:

  • 1/4 cup sugar

  • 1/4 cup lightly packed basil sprigs, plus more for serving

  • 6 cups chopped cantaloupe

  • 1/3 cup fresh grapefruit juice

  • Vodka (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a small heatproof bowl, pour 1/2 cup boiling water over sugar and herbs. Stir until sugar has dissolved. Let cool completely, about 20 minutes.

  2. Strain syrup into a blender. Discard herbs.

  3. Add melon, citrus juice, and 1 3/4 cups cold water. Blend until smooth and then strain with a fine-mesh sieve.

  4. Serve over ice, garnished with an herb sprig, or store in refrigerator for up to three days.

  5. To transform these drinks into cocktails, stir a shot (one once) of alcohol into each serving.