Name: Frozen Watermelon Coolers
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Ingredients: 3 pounds peeled seedless watermelon , cut into 1-inch pieces (10 cups), divided; 2 tablespoons Citrus Rim Salt (optional, see headnote); 2 ounces lime juice (2 limes), plus lime wedges for garnishing; ½-1 ounce recipe; ¼ teaspoon table salt

Why This Recipe Works

We initially started by simply combining fresh watermelon chunks and ice in a blender. Tasters found the semislushy consistency pleasing, but the ice diluted most of the delicate watermelon flavor. Next we tried freezing half the watermelon pieces before blending; this nicely replicated the preferred semislushy consistency without compromising the watermelon flavor. We accented our fruit base with fresh lime juice for a lightly sweet and tangy profile. Just a little bit of Simple Syrup, balanced by some salt, enhanced the watermelon and brought out the sweet and tart flavors even further. After blending everything for just a minute, we had the perfect sippable poolside beverage.

Before You Begin

Depending on the sweetness of your watermelon, you may need to add the greater amount of Simple Syrup. While we prefer using our Citrus Rim Salt here, you can substitute another flavored rim salt, or plain kosher salt; find the recipes in this article.

Instructions

Spread 5 cups watermelon into single layer on large plate and freeze until firm, about 2 hours.

Spread rim salt, if using, into even layer on small saucer. Moisten about ½ inch of 4 chilled collins glass rims by running citrus wedge around outer edge; dry any excess juice with paper towel. Roll moistened rims in salt to coat. Remove any excess salt that falls into glass; set aside.

Add remaining 5 cups fresh watermelon, lime juice, simple syrup, and salt to blender and process until smooth, about 30 seconds, scraping down sides of blender jar as needed. Add frozen watermelon and process until smooth, 30 to 60 seconds. Pour into prepared glasses. Garnish with lime wedges and serve.