Watermelon Rind Daiquiri (Cocktail Recipe)

One of the best times of year, in my humble opinion, is summer because of all the wonderful seasonal fruits that become available. Watermelon is one one my favorite fruits and I feel we waste a lot of it. Most people cut off or don't eat the white rind and it just goes to waste.

I've been pickling watermelon rind with vinegar and sugar for many years now and using them to add a tangy crunch to sandwiches and salads. But it still doesn't use all the rind. Lately I discovered that I can make a refreshing drink that uses some (or all) of the watermelon rind, which is still full of nutrients, just like the rest of the fruit.

Here's what you'll need:
4 cups of roughly chopped watermelon rind
1/2 cup fresh or frozen strawberries or blueberries
1/2 cup pineapple or mango juice
1/2 cup (or more to taste) white rum
1/4 cup Cointreau or other orange liqueur
1/4 cup mint simple syrup (recipe follows)
1 cup ice

Here's what you'll do:
- Add all ingredients to a blender, cover and blend until frothy and slushy.
- Taste and adjust ingredients as needed.
- Pour into glasses, add a straw and enjoy!


Mint Simple Syrup Recipe:
Boil 1 cup water with 1 cup sugar until all the sugar is dissolved.
Turn heat off, add fresh mint and let steep for at least 2 hours.
Strain, let cool completely and pour into a reusable container.
This can keep in the fridge for one week or the freezer indefinitely. Due to the sugar content, it won't freeze solid; it will remain slushy. So you can spoon what you need for next time and keep it in the freezer.