Wow! This flavor-packed limeade is a real thirst quencher during the dog days of summer, when watermelon is at its best. Should a festive occasion arise, it also makes a wonderful margarita mixer when paired with premium white tequila.

　　

Ingredients

Serves 4–6 (about 5 cups)

　　8 cups cubed watermelon (seeds removed), or 1 quart watermelon juice

　　1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice

　　½ cup sugar, or more to taste

　　Lime slices, for garnish (optional)

　　

Step 1

Place half of the watermelon cubes in a blender and process until smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve set over a large bowl; discard the solids. Repeat with the remaining watermelon cubes. You should end up with about 1 quart of watermelon juice.

　　

Step 2

Add the lime juice and sugar to the watermelon juice, and stir until the sugar has dissolved. Taste, and add more sugar if necessary. Transfer the limeade to a nonreactive pitcher and refrigerate until thoroughly chilled.

　　

Step 3

Serve over ice in tumblers, with lime slices for garnish.

　　From Farm to Fork © 2010 by Emeril Lagasse. Buy the full book from HarperCollins or from Amazon.Reprinted with permission from HarperCollins.