Watermelon tequila refreshers

If you prefer to serve alcohol-free cocktails, omit the tequila—the drink is still delicious.

3 / 4 cup sugar

3 1 / 2 pounds seedless watermelon, cut into 2-inch cubes (about 12 cups)

1 cup tequila

1 cup fresh lime juice (6 to 8 limes), plus lime slices for garnish

4 cups ice

• Stir together the sugar and 3 / 4 cup water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over mediumhigh heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Let cool completely. Refrigerate until ready to use, up to 1 week.
• Working in batches, fill the blender with watermelon cubes; blend until smooth. Pass the puree in batches through a fine sieve set over a large bowl, discarding the solids as you work. Refrigerate the juice until ready to use, up to 1 day.
• Stir together the tequila, lime and watermelon juices, and sugar syrup in a large pitcher. Stir in the ice and lime slices.

SERVES 6 TO 8