Watermelon Limeade

    It’s true…I’m going alittle nutz with watermelon recipes. I think it has something to do with the fact that I have ACTUALLY GROWN A FEW MELONS this year, people. You have no idea what an accomplishment this is.  (although I’m not even sure they’re edible yet).     I’ve got houseplants, we have a vegetable garden, I’ve been taking care of  many creatures great and small for all of my years… but ask me how to grow a successful watermelon patch… and you might get a blank stare.. or maybe a diversion tactic… because for some ungodly reason… I SUCK when it comes to growing melons. 

 However… this year.. those vines are taking over the garden, and there are atleast six or seven melons that look like they stand a chance of making it to the table.  And this is happening in a thrown-together-last-minute-unfortified soil- because we’re impatient-   kind of garden.  Go figure.

 Here’s an easy summer drink for the whole family courtesy of Rachel Ray. 

Watermelon Limeade

1 seedless watermelon (about 6 pounds), cut into chunks

3/4 cup lime juice (10 to 12 limes), plus lime slices for garnish

2 to 4 tablespoons sugar

(1/2 cup of Vodka for those of you who want to add a twist)

Ice

Mint sprigs, for garnish

Directions:

1.Using a blender, working in batches, puree the watermelon with the lime juice.

2.Pour the watermelon puree into a large pitcher, add the sugar and stir until dissolved. Dilute with water if desired.  Serve over ice and garnish with lime slices and mint sprigs