High Noon Vodka Hard Seltzer (watermelon Or Pineapple) Recipe

Choose fruit

Decide whether you want watermelon or pineapple flavor. For watermelon: use 1 cup seedless cubed watermelon. For pineapple: use 1 cup cubed fresh pineapple.

Place the chosen fruit in a small blender or food processor. Add the granulated sugar (1 tsp) only if you prefer a slightly sweeter seltzer, and add the fresh lime juice (1 tsp) to brighten the flavor.

Blend until smooth, about 20–30 seconds. If you prefer a very clear seltzer, strain the purée through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing on solids with the back of a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible. You should end up with roughly 2–3 tablespoons (15–45 ml) of purée/juice for 1 serving; adjust quantity if you want stronger fruit flavor.

Taste the purée and adjust: add up to 1/2 tsp more sugar if it's not sweet enough, or a few drops more lime juice if it needs brightness. Stir to combine.

If you want a rim, run a lime wedge around the outside of a tall Collins or highball glass and dip the rim in coarse salt or sugar (optional).

Add ice cubes (about 1 cup) to the glass to chill it well.

Pour the vodka (3 oz) over the ice.

Add the strained fruit purée or juice (about 2–3 tablespoons). If you did not strain, spoon the blended purée in but be aware it will make the seltzer slightly pulpy.

Top with carbonated water or club soda (about 2 cups). Pour gently to preserve carbonation. Stir very gently once or twice with a bar spoon to incorporate the fruit and vodka without flattening the soda.

Taste and adjust: add a splash more soda for a lighter drink, or 1/2 tsp more purée if you want more fruit-forward flavor.

Garnish with a lime wedge on the rim and a mint sprig if desired. For watermelon: a small watermelon wedge or thin slice of cucumber pairs well. For pineapple: a small pineapple wedge works as a garnish.

Serve immediately while cold and fizzy.