Description
There’s something magical about summer afternoons, isn’t there? For me, nothing says “summer bliss” quite like a tall, chilled glass of watermelon lemonade — a drink that instantly transports me to lazy poolside days and family BBQs full of laughter. Growing up, my Italian grandmother always had a jug of this fruity, refreshing drink ready for us. It’s the perfect balance of sweet watermelon and zesty citrus, making it a favorite for all ages. Whether you’re a busy parent needing a quick cool-down for the kids or a working professional wanting a healthy refreshment, this watermelon lemonade recipe hits the spot every time.
Ingredients
- 6 cups seedless watermelon, cut into 1-2 inch cubes
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 4 large lemons)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 1 large lime)
- 1/2 cup water (adjust to taste)
- 1/3 to 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on watermelon sweetness)
- Optional: 2 tbsp agave nectar or honey (natural sweeteners for lemonade)
- Garnishes (optional): fresh mint leaves, watermelon slices, lemon or lime slices
Instructions
- Prep the Watermelon: Cut your seedless watermelon into cubes — about 6 cups worth. Fresh and ripe watermelon makes all the difference here!
- Blend: In a blender, combine the watermelon cubes, water, and granulated sugar. Blend on high until completely smooth.
- Strain: Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large pitcher to remove pulp and seeds. Press with a spoon to extract all the juice.
- Add Citrus: Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon and lime juice. This citrus combo creates the perfect tangy balance.
- Sweeten: Add agave nectar or honey if desired, stirring until fully dissolved. This step is great if your watermelon is less sweet or you prefer a natural fruit sweetener over sugar.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and serve cold.
- Serve: Pour over ice and garnish with fresh mint, watermelon slices, or lemon/lime wheels for a festive touch.
Notes
Use ripe, seedless watermelon for the sweetest juice without fuss. Adjust sweetness by tasting after blending — watermelon varies in sugar content. For a kid-friendly homemade beverage, skip the alcohol and stick to fresh fruit juices. To turn this into an adult drink, add ½ cup vodka or light rum for a delightful vodka watermelon lemonade cocktail. For more cool ideas, try blending fresh fruit drinks like lemon lime soda with watermelon or making watermelon lemonade popsicles for summer picnic drinks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg