Ingredients

1 cube watermelon (about 1 inch)
2 torn basil leaves
1 small slice red or orange habanero pepper
1 pinch salt

3/4 ounce (1½ tablespoons) freshly squeezed lime juice
3/4 ounce (1½ tablespoons) simple syrup
1½ ounces (3 tablespoons) mezcal

Chef notes

This cocktail has the bones of a margarita, which is my absolute favorite summer classic, but adds in fresh watermelon, which I have always associated with barbecues in the park, and then the basil and habanero just add wonderful, bright freshness and a little kick.