Spicy Watermelon Tequila Cocktails (No Added Sugar)

Sometimes, the most delicious things happen by accident.

I spent this past Saturday working hard updating my TV reel (not done yet, but I'll post when it's ready!), while Eugene hid out in the bedroom watching movies. (Because editing a reel means hearing the same clips and songs over...and over...and over again.)

He popped out in the early evening in search of a treat and I pointed out that we still had half a watermelon in the fridge.

"Oh," he said, "it's actually not very good. Kind of mealy."

"Can I turn it into a cocktail then?" I asked.

Because in our house, watermelon is usually Eugene's personal treat. As in "hands-off-Alejandra!"

I'm not allowed to freeze it or make watermelon feta salads or smoothies or anything.

But a mediocre watermelon?

"Sure," he said.  "Although most watermelon cocktails I've had have been bad."

"This one won't be," I assured him. "I know what I'm doing! Want to see my reel as evidence?" I threatened.

"Nooooooo, thank you!" He ran off before I could play him the clips for the 87th time.

SO this is what I came up with. It's a simple drink made of pureed watermelon, tequila, fresh lime juice, and just a hint of chile served cold in a tall glass over ice with a spicy salty rim.

It's quick to make and has NO added sugar or sweeteners. This was delicious with a mediocre watermelon--imagine how good it would be with a spectacular one!

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Spicy Watermelon Tequila Coolers
Makes 2 cocktails, multiply as necessary

Ingredients
4 cups diced watermelon (seedless or remove seeds, about 1/2 medium watermelon)
6 oz white tequila
1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne
2 oz fresh lime juice (from about 2 - 3 limes)

For the rim:
2 teaspoons kosher or margarita salt
2 teaspoons chile powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Ice
Limes for garnish

Directions
Combine the diced watermelon, tequila, cayenne, and lime in a blender or food processor and puree until very smooth and liquid.

In a separate shallow dish, combine the salt, chile, and cayenne and whisk to combine. Run a lime around the rim of 2 large glasses and roll in the chile mixture to coat. Fill glasses with ice and pour the drink into the glasses (you may have a bit extra left, depending on the size of your glass). 

Note: If your watermelon is not very sweet, you may need to add a bit of honey or simple syrup, although I found that it was not necessary. Eugene also requested extra tequila in his, so adjust to your tastes and preferences.

Serve immediately garnished with a lime, and enjoy!