It’s more than just alliteration; it’s a statement, a proclamation that Thursdays are when the weekend should really start. Kicking it off right is the key, and what better way than with a cocktail that not only takes the edge off, but tastes good too. A hard thing to disagree with, we know. Drink up, get down and go to sleep happy.

Break out your blender to whip up a slushy, cooling cocktail for summer. We suggest these frozen Watermelon Martinis as a start.

First, make ice cubes out of the watermelon by pureeing the sweet fruit and then pouring it into ice cube trays. This clever technique helps to maintain the full flavor of watermelon without dilution (since watermelon is already over 90 percent water). Once the watermelon cubes are frozen, blend them with simple syrup, lemon juice, vodka and melon liqueur.

Tip: Keep extra watermelon cubes in the freezer all summer, to spruce up lemonade, sparkling water or an impromptu martini anytime.

Bottoms up, folks!

Watermelon Martini

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup water

• 5 cups watermelon, seeds removed
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 1/4 cups vodka
• 2 ounces melon liqueur, optional
• 8 lemon twists, for garnish

Directions:

Bring the sugar and water to a boil in a small saucepan and cook until the sugar has completely dissolved. Let cool. 

In a food processor, puree the watermelon flesh. Add a little of the sugar syrup to sweeten, to taste. Pour the pureed watermelon into 2 empty ice cube trays and freeze for at least 4 hours. 

In a blender combine the frozen watermelon cubes, more simple syrup, to taste, lemon juice and vodka, melon liqueur and blend until smooth. Pour into 8 frozen martini glasses and garnish with a lemon twist.

Still thirsty? Check out more of Cooking Channel’s best summer drinks and cocktails.