Watermelon Refresher with Mastiha & Rose

Watermelon is such a refreshing fruit on its own. In this recipe, I juiced it and served it with a Mastiha & Rose scented simple syrup to add a floral Mediterranean twist. Serve this drink on any hot summertime day to cool down and relax.

How to pick a sweet Watermelon

We’ve all brought home a tasteless watermelon with the texture of styrofoam. Such a disappointment! Follow these tips so that never happens again and so that you bring home a sweet delicious melon each and every time!

1. Look for the spot on the watermelon where it was resting on the ground. It should be a sort of peach color. The darker it is, the sweeter the melon will be. If it is white, walk away and never look back. haha!
2. Knock on it and it should sound hollow. If it does not then, it is probably overripe and not the one that you are looking for.
3. Look at the exterior and it should be a little dull. Shiny melons are usually not ripe. Also, look at the webbing. If the lines are far apart, it is sweet!
4. Lift it and choose the heaviest one of the same size. Heavy melons are very juicy!

What is Mastiha?

Mastiha, Mastic Gum, is a resin that comes from the mastic tree. Most Greek Mastiha is grown on the island of Chios and Greeks chew it like gum. In ancient times, it was used by Hippocrates as medicine for digestive issues, colds, and for fresh breath.

Mastiha has a very distinct flavor similar to pine. If you cannot find it, you can substitute a small pinch of cardamom seeds instead.

Here’s an Amazon (affiliate) link to buy some online

And, here is another link for the Rose Water:

How to make the Watermelon Refresher

Watermelon is loaded with vitamins and electrolytes and is already sweet and delicious on its own. I like to make a flavored simple syrup and serve it on the side rather than inside the drink so that guests can control the flavor and added sweetness.

• Make the Mastiha & Rose Syrup: Combine the sugar, water, and mastiha in a small saucepan and bring it to a boil. Once the sugar has dissolved remove it from the heat and add the rose water. Mix and set aside to cool completely. Pass the syrup through a strainer and into an airtight jar. Refrigerate up to a week and feel free to add this to any cold drinks: iced tea, juice, etc.
• Cut the watermelon (try to use seedless watermelon) into cubes and puree it in a blender until smooth.
• Pour the mixture through a strainer and into a pitcher to remove the pulp.
• Refrigerate the juice until it is chilled.
• Serve the drink with the Mastiha and Rose syrup on the side so that your guests can control the sweetness.

Make Watermelon Ice Cubes/Balls

Use a mini ice cream scoop to form the balls of watermelon. Chill them in the freezer until ready to serve. Feel free to make a large batch and once they’re frozen solid, transfer them into a freezer-safe storage bag. Use them to cool any of your favorite drinks.

These watermelon cubes will keep your watermelon drink nice and cool without watering down the taste. They also make for a healthy snack option for the kids.

Watch the Video Tutorial

Flavor Variations & Substitutes

It’s all about the options and they are endless!

• add some lime juice to the drink to brighten it up
• blend your favorite berries and either turn them into ice cubes or stir them into the drink after it is strained.
• leave out the simple syrup and add some flavored sparkling water instead.
• add some coconut water for a tropical twist.

I hope that you give this refreshing drink a try and if you do, comment down below and let me know how you made it. Share pics with me on Facebook & Instagram and I will be back soon with another recipe worth sharing. Stin Ygeia Sou (to good health!), Dimitra.

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