Summer brings the perfect opportunity to enjoy fresh, fruity drinks, and the Watermelon Gimlet is a top pick at my bar. This cocktail blends the refreshing taste of watermelon with the crispness of gin, smoothed out by a touch of lime and simple syrup. It’s easy to prepare and always a hit at parties or as a relaxing evening treat. The natural sweetness of watermelon makes it particularly appealing when you’re looking for something that’s both refreshing and flavorful. Give this Watermelon Gimlet recipe a try; it’s sure to please.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy

Ingredients
- 2 oz gin or vodka if you prefer a milder taste
- 1 oz watermelon juice to make, blend fresh watermelon and strain the juice
- 1/2 oz lime juice freshly squeezed for the best flavor
- 1/2 oz simple syrup adjust sweetness to taste
- watermelon slice for garnish
- Mint leaves optional for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Watermelon Juice:
- Remove seeds from watermelon and cut into chunks.
- Blend the chunks until smooth, then strain through a fine mesh sieve to extract the juice.
Mix the Cocktail:
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, watermelon juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Add a handful of ice cubes to the shaker.
Shake:
- Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds or until the mixture is well chilled.
Serve:
- Strain the cocktail into a chilled glass. You can use a fine mesh sieve if you prefer a clearer drink.
- Garnish with a slice of watermelon and a sprig of mint, if using.
Enjoy:
- Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, fruity flavors of your Watermelon Gimlet.