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Classic Melon Ball Cocktail Recipe: A Refreshing Summer Drink
This vibrant green cocktail from the 1980s combines the sweet, tropical taste of melon liqueur with vodka and fruit juices to create a refreshing summer drink that's perfect for pool parties and BBQs.
Ingredients
For one serving:
- 1 oz (30ml) melon liqueur (such as Midori)
- 1 oz (30ml) vodka
- 2 oz (60ml) pineapple juice
- 1 oz (30ml) orange juice
- Fresh melon balls for garnish (cantaloupe, honeydew, or watermelon)
- Ice cubes
Equipment Needed
- Cocktail shaker
- Strainer
- Highball glass
- Melon baller (for garnish)
- Cocktail picks or skewers
Instructions
- Fill your cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the melon liqueur, vodka, pineapple juice, and orange juice.
- Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until well-chilled.
- Fill a highball glass with fresh ice.
- Strain the cocktail mixture into the glass.
- Garnish with fresh melon balls on a cocktail pick.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Use chilled juices for an extra-cold drink
- Opt for fresh-squeezed orange juice if possible
- Create melon balls in advance and keep them chilled
- For best presentation, use different colored melons for garnish
Variations
Tropical Melon Ball
- Add 1/2 oz coconut rum
- Replace orange juice with coconut water
Virgin Melon Ball
- Skip the alcohol
- Use melon syrup instead of liqueur
- Increase fruit juices accordingly
- Add a splash of lime juice for balance
Frozen Melon Ball
- Blend all ingredients with frozen melon balls
- Reduce ice for proper consistency
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare melon balls up to 3 days in advance
- Store prepared melon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator
- For parties, pre-mix the liquid ingredients (except juices) up to 24 hours ahead
- Add fresh juices just before serving
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in a highball glass for individual portions
- Scale up the recipe for punch bowls at parties
- Pair with light summer appetizers or fruit platters
- Ideal serving temperature: Very cold (35-40°F / 2-4°C)
