The Melon Ball is a short, sweet drink made with Midori – a vibrant green melon liqueur – and vodka. The blend of pineapple juice and melon makes it refreshing and fruity without being overpowering. Perfect for warm days or as an introduction to the world of liqueur cocktails. Simple to mix, but with a little trick that intensifies the flavour.
Here’s what you need for the Melon Ball
4 cl vodka
4 cl melon liqueur (e.g. Midori)
8 cl pineapple juice (freshly squeezed or high-quality bottled)
crushed ice cubes
1 piece honeydew melon (as garnish)
What matters
The trick is in the ice: use crushed ice that isn’t too fine – it should still contain small pieces that melt slowly, keeping the drink cool without diluting it. Freshly squeezed pineapple juice makes all the difference: it has more acidity and fruitiness than bottled juice. If you can’t find melon liqueur, you can mix a high-quality honeydew melon syrup with a little vodka to achieve a similar sweetness. Don’t forget the garnish – the melon piece not only adds colour to the drink but also a fresh aroma when drinking.
Variations
- Melon Ball Fizz — Replace half of the pineapple juice with 4 cl soda water and serve the drink in a Highball glass with ice cubes. Garnish: melon piece and a lime slice.
- Melon Margarita — Replace the vodka with 4 cl Blanco Tequila and add 1 cl lime juice. Serve in a Margarita glass with a salt rim and melon piece.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make the Melon Ball without alcohol?
Yes, replace the vodka with 4 cl alcohol-free melon syrup or a neutral syrup like agave syrup. The taste remains fruity, but less complex.
Why is the drink stirred and not shaken?
Pineapple juice foams strongly when shaken. Stirring keeps the drink clear and the texture smooth. Additionally, the ice melts more slowly, helping to maintain the flavour for longer.
Which melon is best for the garnish?
Honeydew melon or Galia melon – they are sweet but not too watery. Cut the piece so that it still has some fruit flesh that can be enjoyed while drinking.
