One of the "must haves" at a summer picnic is watermelon. I love to serve wedges, and also cut watermelon into cubes and mix with other fruit for a fruit salad. Watermelon cubes are a good choice to include on fruit skewers, too.

Late summer is the best time for finding good sweet watermelon, since that's when the locally grown melons began appearing at farmer's markets and roadside stands.

If you love the taste of watermelon, this summer drink is a great one to serve at your next backyard barbecue or picnic. It is very easy and can be made ahead. If you happen to get a watermelon that is a bit overripe, you can use it in this slush and it will still taste great! You don't have to carve your watermelon shell if you are short on time, but it looks good on a picnic table and guests will think you took a lot more time than you actually did!

Watermelon Lime Slush

 
18 Servings
  
1 seedless watermelon, (about 10 pounds)

1 cup water
1 cup sugar

1 12 oz. can frozen limeade concentrate

2 liters lemon-lime soda if you like it carbonated or you can substitute lemonade or water if you want a non-carbonated drink

 
With a sharp knife, cut a small slice from the stem end of the watermelon so it will sit up without rolling. At the other end of the watermelon, cut a small X through the rind to relieve pressure, then cut a piece about 3" wide from the end of the melon. Scoop out the pulp from the melon and pulse in the food processor in batches. Place in a freezable container.
 
Mix the water and sugar in a small saucepan; bring to a boil and cook until the sugar is dissolved. Add the limeade concentrate and stir until melted; add to the pureed watermelon mixture. Cover tightly and freeze overnight.
 
Meanwhile, cut scallops or some decorative shapes in the top of the watermelon shell; chill until serving.
 
When ready to serve, scoop out the frozen watermelon mixture into the watermelon shell, then pour in the lemon-lime soda; stir to break up any lumps.