Introduction

Watermelon lemonade is the ultimate refreshing summer drink, combining the natural sweetness of watermelon with the tangy brightness of fresh lemon juice. Perfect for hot days, this vibrant beverage is easy to make and wonderfully thirst-quenching.

Watermelon Lemonade: The Ultimate Refreshing Summer Drink Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

8 cups cubed seedless watermelon, chilled
1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 6-8 lemons)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
4 cups cold water, plus more to adjust consistency
Lemon slices, for garnish
Watermelon wedges, for garnish
Fresh mint sprigs, for garnish (optional)
Ice cubes

Instructions

Step 1: Cut watermelon into 1-inch cubes to measure about 8 cups.
Step 2: Blend the watermelon cubes in a blender until smooth.
Step 3: Strain the watermelon puree through a fine-mesh sieve or a cheesecloth-lined colander to remove solids. Discard the solids.
Step 4: Squeeze lemons to obtain 1 cup of fresh lemon juice, removing any seeds.
Step 5: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar with 1/2 cup water. Heat gently, stirring until the sugar dissolves, then allow to cool.
Step 6: In a large pitcher, combine the lemon juice and the cooled sugar syrup. Stir until fully incorporated and adjust sweetness to taste.
Step 7: Add the strained watermelon puree to the pitcher and stir well.
Step 8: Pour in 4 cups of cold water and stir. Add more water if you prefer a lighter consistency.
Step 9: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 10: Fill glasses with ice cubes.
Step 11: Pour the chilled watermelon lemonade into the prepared glasses.
Step 12: Garnish with lemon slices, watermelon wedges, and fresh mint sprigs if desired.
Step 13: Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing taste.

Tips & Variations

For a sparkling version, replace some or all of the cold water with sparkling water just before serving.
If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar or substitute with honey or agave syrup.
Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors and balance the sweetness.
Try blending in fresh ginger or basil for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Storage

Store leftover watermelon lemonade in a covered pitcher or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving again. It’s best enjoyed chilled and fresh to maintain the vibrant flavors.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen watermelon instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen watermelon cubes can be used. Thaw slightly before blending for best results, but keep in mind the texture may be slightly different and the drink may be more diluted.

How do I make this recipe less sweet?

You can reduce the amount of sugar or simple syrup to your preferred level of sweetness. Start with less and add more if needed, tasting as you go.

Watermelon Lemonade: The Ultimate Refreshing Summer Drink Recipe

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4.6 from 122 reviews

Watermelon Lemonade is the ultimate refreshing summer drink that combines the sweetness of ripe watermelon with the tartness of fresh lemon juice. This cool, hydrating beverage is perfect for hot days, offering a vibrant pink color, natural sweetness, and a touch of minty freshness. Easy to prepare and perfect for parties or casual sipping, this drink is a delightful way to stay refreshed and hydrated.

Author: Lena
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Beverage
Method: Blending
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

Watermelon Lemonade

8 cups cubed seedless watermelon, chilled
1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 6–8 lemons)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
4 cups cold water, plus more to adjust consistency
Lemon slices, for garnish
Watermelon wedges, for garnish
Fresh mint sprigs, for garnish (optional)
Ice cubes

Instructions

Prepare Watermelon: Cut watermelon into 1-inch cubes making approximately 8 cups of fruit. Ensure the watermelon is chilled for maximum refreshment.
Blend Watermelon: Place watermelon cubes into a blender and blend until completely smooth to create a pure watermelon juice.
Strain Puree: Pour the blended watermelon through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth-lined colander to remove seeds and pulp, obtaining a clear juice. Discard solids.
Juice Lemons: Squeeze fresh lemons to extract 1 cup of lemon juice, making sure to remove any seeds for a clean, bright flavor.
Make Sugar Syrup: Combine 1/2 cup sugar with 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves completely, then allow the syrup to cool.
Mix Lemonade Base: In a large pitcher, combine lemon juice and the cooled sugar syrup. Stir well to dissolve sugar fully. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.
Add Watermelon Juice: Pour the strained watermelon juice into the lemonade base and stir to combine evenly.
Adjust Consistency: Add 4 cups cold water to the pitcher, stirring thoroughly. Add more water if the lemonade is too thick to achieve your preferred consistency.
Chill the Drink: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate the watermelon lemonade for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Prepare to Serve: Fill serving glasses with ice cubes to keep the drink chilled.
Serve Lemonade: Pour the chilled watermelon lemonade over the ice-filled glasses for a refreshing presentation.
Garnish: Add lemon slices, watermelon wedges, and fresh mint sprigs to each glass for an appealing look and added freshness.
Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy this cool, invigorating summer drink!

Notes

Adjust sugar quantity to taste depending on the sweetness of your watermelon and personal preference.
For a fizzy twist, substitute some cold water with sparkling water before serving.
If you prefer a thicker drink, reduce the amount of added water.
Mint sprigs are optional but add a pleasant aromatic freshness.
Use seedless watermelon to avoid extra straining and seeds in the drink.
Leftover watermelon puree can be frozen for later use in smoothies or popsicles.

Keywords: watermelon lemonade, summer drink, refreshing drink, fruity lemonade, healthy beverage, homemade lemonade, chilled drink, natural sweetener