Big Batch Frozen Watermelon Margaritas

Serves 8

This crowd-friendly recipe reverses my original technique so instead of starting with frozen watermelon, you make fresh watermelon juice, mix it with tequila, lime and agave and then freeze the mixture. The tequila prevents it from freezing solidly, resulting in a refreshing adult water-ice-like concoction that everyone goes bananas (watermelons?) for. Also, it's easy to halve or double depending on your freezer space/crowd size.

• 10 cups cubed seedless watermelon

• 1 1/2 cups tequila blanco (12 oz)

• 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (I know, that's a lot of limes; but the bottled stuff doesn't taste the same)

• 1/2 cup agave syrup

Blend watermelon, in batches as necessary, into a smooth juice where no chucks remain. (It took 2 batches in my blender, but could take more depending on capacity/power.) You will end up with approximately 7 cups of juice. Mix juice with tequila, lime juice, and agave. Pour into covered container(s) that fit into your freezer and allow to freeze at least 8 hours or overnight (these can be made weeks in advance if you're really feeling like Martha Stewart).

Making a Bigger Batch of anything takes more planning. Expect to freeze your watermelon overnight, or at least 8 hours.

When selecting a covered container, be sure it fits into your freezer. I use these deli quart containers for easy storage and defrosting.

When ready to serve, allow to defrost 5-10 minutes and pour into a large serving container. You will have large chunks that need to be broken up with a wooden spoon and thoroughly mixed. Again, this is pretty easy because of the tequila, but allow yourself a few minutes to do this. Once mixed and the consistency of a slushie, divide between glasses.

I like to serve with a spoon or a large (biodegradable!) straw. Mini umbrella optional :)