Cantaloupe Salty Dog

The Cantaloupe Salty Dog is a fresh take on a classic, swapping grapefruit for mellow cantaloupe juice. It’s simple, refreshing, and a little unexpected, perfect for warm days or low-key gatherings. The salted rim enhances the fruit’s natural sweetness, while vodka keeps the profile clean and crisp. Served over ice and finished with a slice of cantaloupe, this drink is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Inspired by mydiaryofus.com.

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Tasting Notes

The Cantaloupe Salty Dog is mellow, slightly savory, and refreshingly fruit-forward. Fresh cantaloupe juice brings natural sweetness and soft melon flavor, while vodka keeps the drink clean and smooth. The salted rim adds contrast, enhancing the melon’s subtle depth and pulling forward the juicier elements. Unlike citrus-heavy versions, this variation offers a gentler, more rounded profile that still feels bright and crisp. The cantaloupe slice garnish provides a fresh, aromatic cue with every sip. It’s easy to drink and surprisingly nuanced, especially when served cold and freshly made.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a jigger for precise measuring and a small dish for rimming your glass with salt. A citrus juicer is optional, but if you’re juicing fresh cantaloupe, a blender and fine strainer will be helpful. A bar spoon works well for gently stirring the drink once built. This cocktail is typically served in a rocks glass, which shows off the rim and holds ice comfortably. A paring knife is useful for preparing a thin, even slice of cantaloupe for garnish.

Ingredients

• 4 oz cantaloupe juice
• 2 oz vodka
• Salt, for rimming
• Garnish: cantaloupe slice

Instructions

• Pour salt onto a small plate. Wet the rim of a rocks glass and press it into the salt to coat.
• Fill the glass with ice.
• Add cantaloupe juice and vodka to a shaker.
• Shake with ice and strain into the prepared glass.
• Garnish with a cantaloupe slice.

Pro Tips

• Use ripe cantaloupe for the best juice flavor underripe melon will taste flat.
• If juicing fresh, blend cubed melon and strain through a fine mesh sieve.
• Salt the rim lightly to avoid overpowering the drink.
• Chill the juice and vodka before mixing to reduce dilution.
• Use flaky sea salt or smoked salt for a different take.
• For a stronger flavor, add a squeeze of lime juice to the mix.
• Serve with a melon ball skewer for a fun, edible garnish.

When to Serve

The Cantaloupe Salty Dog is ideal for summer afternoons, brunches, or casual outdoor gatherings. It fits in well at poolside parties, barbecues, and laid-back happy hours. With its bright color and clean flavor, it’s a natural choice for hot days or whenever you need something refreshing and not too strong. It also makes a great daytime option for those looking for something fruit-driven but not overly sweet. Serve it chilled and fresh for the best results.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Vodka: Tito’s Handmade, Ketel One, or Prairie Organic
• Cantaloupe Juice: Fresh-juiced preferred, or cold-pressed from a juicery
• Salt: Maldon sea salt, smoked sea salt, or kosher salt for rimming
• Garnish: Use a ripe, thinly sliced cantaloupe wedge or ball

Similar Cocktails

• Thai Lime Smash
• Bergamot Amaretto Sour
• Caprese Martini
• Cantaloupe Gin Spritz
• Cantaloupe Ginger Cocktail