May 17, 2017  By Jewish National Fund  Category: Blueprint Negev,

In the JNF Kitchen: Watermelon margaritas inspired by Israel's Arava

It's Friday, the temperatures are climbing and it's time to celebrate the watermelon season in the Arava -- with a twist! The Arava desert is a region characterized by sharp climate changes, extreme topographical conditions, scarce water, and dramatic natural beauty. It's a key focus of JNF's Blueprint Negev initiative. 


The above picture is the perfect example of the pioneer spirit and tenacious creativity found in the Arava region. What residents lack in natural resources they make up for in ingenious solutions, such as growing melons from above when they can't grow them from the inhospitable soil below. All year round, the tastiest peppers, artichokes, melons, and cucumbers come out of the Central Arava.

This drink is an homage to the soul that is Israel's Arava. L'Chaim!


Enjoy this #RecipeOfTheWeek, and if you make any of these recipes, be sure to send a photo of your creation to [email protected] or tweet it to @JNFUSA with the hashtag #JNFfoodie. We might share it! 

Ingredients
1 1/4 cups (300 milliliters) watermelon juice (from 1 small ripe watermelon)
2 1/2 Tbsp (37 milliliters) lime/lemon juice
5 Tbsp (2 1/2 ounces) tequila

Sea salt (for lining rim). 

Directions
Shake and drink!