It seems that my recipes these days are inspired by food memories, and for good reason—I’m a huge foodie! Food is important to me because it’s a medium for sharing culture, where people come together and many times forget their differences, celebrating the flavors of a heritage.
Other times, food is an indulgence and a comfort and just part of good old hospitality.
Picture this: it’s a spring day in Vegas, where it’s just staring to get warm and I get the hankering for some southern BBQ. I discover Wild Fig BBQ a short drive away and decide to go check it out. Upon arrival, I’m welcomed by the smell of the smoker and a welcoming guy who offers me a complimentary refreshing iced cantaloupe drink.
It was bright orange, kind of icey and so I knew it would be refreshing. Normally, I’m not a fan of cantaloupe. It’s something about the texture and the bubblegum smell of it. It’s just normally not for me, but after a sip of this I was immediately a convert. It still had that bubblegum melon flavor, but for some reason I didn’t mind it this time. It instead read as refreshing.
I had never had a cantaloupe drink before. Papaya, sure. Honeydew, sure. But this was a new one for me. And so I left intrigued, not only by the drink but also by the amazing pastrami smoked brisket that I ordered. Definitely check them out if you’re ever in town!
Inspired by that delightful experience, I've created a Cantaloupe Basil Frosé Mocktail recipe that captures the essence of that moment while adding an elevated twist. It's a guilt-free, less sweet, and utterly perfect adult treat for those hot summer days.
What you’ll need
- 1 ripe cantaloupe, peeled, seeded, and diced
- 10-12 fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for those who prefer a touch of sweetness)
- 1/2 cup crushed ice
- 1 cup sparkling wine, like any of our favorite rosés
- Basil leaves and cantaloupe slices, for garnish
- A blender
This Cantaloupe Basil Frosé Mocktail recipe is the epitome of summer in a glass. It combines the sweet, refreshing taste of cantaloupe with the herbal notes of basil, creating a mocktail that's will instantly transport you to… vegas? no… I think Italy. Serve it with prosciutto and cheese as a snack you’ve got a match made in heaven. It’s the perfect adult treat to beat the summer heat. So, go ahead, whip up this delightful mocktail, close your eyes, and let the flavors transport you to a sun-drenched oasis, no plane ticket required. Cheers!
