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It’s gorgeous out! Let’s head to the park and relax with a light lunch and a boozy beverage. Who’s in?

Cooper and Scout are! They listen very intently when I say, “Do you want to go to the park?”

Also, they’re sitting on my new welcome mat. It says, “it’s always happy hour.” I couldn’t very well leave that in the store, now could I? It was a Mermaid with a Martini Must-Have ? They’re whining excitedly now and wiggling their rear-ends. They loooove the park, so I’ve got to get this picnic basket ready.

Today, I’m surprising Shocks with a Watermelon Smash and a Mozzarella Melon Skewer. Do you see a trend? Fresh watermelon was on sale at the market!

These recipes are easy-peasy to pack and quick to make. And watermelon, believe it or not, goes incredibly well with basil and mozzarella. It’s really the perfect pairing and I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Let’s get the drink ready!

Watermelon Smash
2 oz Tequila
½ oz St. Germain
¼ cup Watermelon
2 Mint Leaves
1 tsp Agave
Squeeze of Fresh Lime
Garnish with Watermelon and Mint
Ice

Double recipe for two drinks, and so on.

Place watermelon and mint in a mason jar and muddle (or “smash”). Add tequila, St. Germain, agave and lime. Place lid on the jar and pack for the park. Once in the park, add ice, shake and pour! Garnish with watermelon or mint, or both. You can drink this over ice or martini style. (Similar recipes are found in searches as a Sandia Smash)

Make it a mocktail: Fresh watermelon juice is great with club soda and fresh mint. Pour over ice and garnish with lime.

The Mozzarella Melon Skewer is a fun treat for the park because it’s so quick, fresh and includes two of my faves, cheese (all day, everyday) and tomatoes. Can you believe I once bet Dad that I would never eat “raw” tomatoes, ever, ever, ever. I held out until I was a senior in high school. (How did I not eat tomatoes until high school?) Yep, he took the money too. (How did I not get out of paying him?)

Mozzarella Melon Skewers
8 Mozzarella Balls
16 small Watermelon Squares
1 pint grape tomatoes
½ bunch Fresh Basil
2 TBS Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
1 TBS Balsamic Vinegar
Salt and Pepper

(Recipe for two – double for four, etc.)

Halve the mozzarella and tomatoes and cut the watermelon into small squares. Thread onto skewers with basil leaves placed throughout. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic and season with salt and pepper to taste. Place in container and let the flavors marinate on the way to the park.

I have to give a shout out for this recipe to fellow mermaid, Kristy. She’s made these several times for gatherings and they always look so festive and make everything feel and taste like summer. (They’re perfect for 4th of July parties!)

Mermaid Magic: Bring country bread to soak up any extra olive oil and balsamic. Yummy.

Pack everything in your favorite picnic basket or bag and head to the park. Don’t forget the doggy treats and water; it’s hot out there!

Trying this pairing for your park visit? Share below!

Splish Splash!

Keep your heels, head and standards high and your home a happy one.