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Refreshing watermelon lemonade in a glass pitcher garnished with lemon slices, watermelon chunks, fresh mint, and a watermelon wedge on a white rustic wooden table.

Watermelon Lemonade: Easy & Refreshing Summer Drink Recipe


  • Author: Kai
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

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

Scale
  • 6 cups seedless watermelon, cut into 12 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

  1. Prep the Watermelon: Cut your seedless watermelon into cubes — about 6 cups worth. Fresh and ripe watermelon makes all the difference here!
  2. Blend: In a blender, combine the watermelon cubes, water, and granulated sugar. Blend on high until completely smooth.
  3. 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.
  4. Add Citrus: Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon and lime juice. This citrus combo creates the perfect tangy balance.
  5. 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.
  6. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and serve cold.
  7. 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

Keywords: watermelon lemonade, summer drink, refreshing beverage, healthy lemonade