Cucumber-Melon Cooler

Canteloupe and cucumber are pureed, and their liquids combined with lime juice & a vanilla syrup to make this beverage. Add liquor for a margarita.

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Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups water, divided
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 vanilla bean, split in half lengthwise and seeds scraped
• 1 large ripe cantaloupe, seeded and chopped
• 1 large cucumber, peeled and chopped
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• A few extra slices of melon or cucumber for garnish (optional)
• 8 oz tequila (optional)
• 4 oz triple sec (optional)

Method

Place 1 cup of the water and the 1 cup sugar in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Add the vanilla bean and its seeds. Remove from heat and let steep 30 minutes. Remove the vanilla bean and cool, then chill until ready for use. No need to strain this mixture, as the seeds add a lovely touch to the syrup. Puree cantaloupe chunks in a blender or food processor. Press through a fine mesh sieve, reserving liquid. Repeat this process with the cucumber, reserving the liquid. Place the melon liquid, cucumber liquid, simple vanilla syrup, lime juice and remaining 1/2 cup water in a large pitcher; stir to combine. Pour over ice in tall glasses. Garnish each glass with a slice of melon or cucumber. Add 8 oz. tequila and 4 oz. triple sec to the mixture for an adult margarita.

Notes: The simple vanilla-flavored syrup can be used in a variety of other drink recipes, too.

Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Submitted By: chefmoni
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