WATERMELON MARGARITAS

WATERMELON MARGARITAS 1/2 cup white sugar 1/2 cup water 3 strips orange zest 2 cups cubed seeded watermelon 3/4 cup white tequila 1/4 cup lime juice salt or sugar for rimming glasses (optional) 1 lime, cut into wedges 2 cups crushed ice, or as needed Bring 1/2 cup sugar, water, and orange zest in a small saucepan to boil, stirring constantly. Simmer until sugar is dissolved, about 3 minutes. Remove simple syrup from heat and allow to cool completely. Place watermelon in a blender or food processor. Pulse until pureed. Stir watermelon puree into a large pitcher with simple syrup, tequila, and lime juice. Place a small amount of salt or sugar into a saucer. Rub edge of margarita glasses with a lime wedge to moisten. Lightly dip the rim of the glass into the saucer to rim the glass; tap off excess salt or sugar. Fill rimmed glasses with crushed ice; pour margarita mixture into glasses and garnish with lime wedges to serve.