Vodka, Triple Sec Sunshine Recipe

1. Make watermelon juice

If you don't have pre-pressed juice: cube about 1 1/2 cups of seedless watermelon, place in a blender and pulse until smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl or measuring cup to remove pulp. Measure 2 oz (about 1/4 cup) for the cocktail and reserve any extra for another drink.

2. Prepare glass

If you want a rim: rub a lime wedge around the glass rim and dip into coarse salt or sugar. Fill the serving glass with ice to chill while you mix (discard that ice before pouring).

3. Add 2 oz vodka, 1/2 oz triple sec, 3/4 oz fresh lime juice, 2 oz fresh watermelon juice, and 1/2 oz simple syrup into a cocktail shaker.

4. Add a generous handful of ice to the shaker (about 1 cup) and securely close the shaker.

5. Shake vigorously for 12–15 seconds until the outside of the shaker is very cold and slightly frosted.

6. Discard the ice from the chilled serving glass (if you chilled it) and strain the cocktail into the glass over fresh ice. Use a fine strainer if you prefer a smoother texture.

7. If you like a slightly lighter, fizzy finish, top with about 1 oz club soda and gently stir once to combine.

8. Garnish with a small watermelon wedge or a couple of watermelon balls on a pick and a lime wheel on the rim.

9. Serve immediately. Recommend enjoying chilled in the late morning or early afternoon for a bright, 'sunshine' feel.