A drink to hold at the party, sweetened by the melon alone

A pitcher of something bright and cold makes any gathering better, and this one is entirely yours to make and hold with confidence. 3 ingredients, a pitcher, and a night in the fridge, and you have something festive and refreshing that fits beautifully into any evening.

What is in the glass is mostly water and watermelon, so it hydrates while it refreshes, and steady hydration quietly helps everything run more smoothly during a healing stretch. Watermelon is a source of vitamin C, involved in the everyday repair of connective tissue and in supporting immune function. The mint asks nothing of your gut and gives the water a clean, cooling lift.

Make it the night before so it is ready when you want it. Pour it over ice into a glass you like, and let it be a genuine pleasure. Take a breath, notice the color, and drink it slowly. A glass of something this simple still deserves a moment of care.

Ingredients

• 1 small watermelon, cubed
• 1 sprig fresh mint
• Cold water, to fill the pitcher

All ingredients are AIP Core compliant as written. No swaps needed.

Method

Drop the mint and the watermelon cubes into the bottom of a pitcher. Muddle them lightly with a muddler or the back of a spoon, just enough to bruise the mint and release some juice from the melon. Do not crush them to a pulp.

Fill the pitcher with cold water to cover, then refrigerate overnight, about 12 hours, so the watermelon and mint can infuse the water.

Serve cold over ice. For a variation, add a few cucumber slices to the pitcher before chilling. A splash of lemon also works if you are not avoiding it.

*Adapted from a-clean-plate*