Name: Watermelon Lemonade
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into 1-2 inch cubes; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste); 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 4 large lemons); 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from 1 large lime); 1-2 tablespoons agave nectar or honey (optional, for extra sweetness); 2 cups cold water; Ice (for serving); Optional garnishes: fresh mint leaves, watermelon slices, lemon and/or lime slices

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This Watermelon Lemonade is a cool and fruity drink that combines the sweet juiciness of ripe watermelon with the fresh tang of lemon and lime. It’s the perfect refreshment for warm weather or any time I want something naturally delicious and hydrating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this drink comes together in minutes with simple ingredients and no fancy tools. The blend of watermelon with citrus makes each sip crisp, light, and energizing. It’s great for summer picnics, backyard barbecues, or just keeping in the fridge for a flavorful alternative to plain water. Plus, I can adjust the sweetness exactly how I like it.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Seedless watermelon, cut into 1-2 inch cubes
Granulated sugar
Fresh lemon juice (from about 4 large lemons)
Fresh lime juice (from 1 large lime)
Agave nectar or honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
Cold water
Ice (for serving)
Optional garnishes: fresh mint leaves, watermelon slices, lemon and/or lime slices

Directions

I place the cubed watermelon, sugar, and water in a blender and blend until everything is smooth.
I strain the juice through a fine mesh sieve into a large pitcher to get rid of any pulp, but sometimes I leave a little in for texture.
I stir in the fresh lemon juice, lime juice, and a bit of agave or honey if I want it sweeter.
I pour it over ice and garnish with mint and fruit slices when I’m serving guests or just want to make it extra refreshing.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 6 to 8 servings. It only takes around 10 minutes to prepare from start to finish, making it an ideal last-minute refresher.

Variations

Sparkling Twist: I like to swap some of the water with sparkling water to give it a bubbly lift.
Berry Boost: Sometimes I blend in a handful of strawberries or raspberries for a slightly richer flavor.
Herbal Freshness: A few fresh basil or mint leaves blended in add a gentle, refreshing herbal note.
Frozen Slush: I freeze the watermelon cubes first and blend them with the other ingredients to create a frozen lemonade slush.

Storage/Reheating

I keep leftovers in a covered pitcher in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before drinking again, I give it a good stir, since the juice can separate over time. This drink is always served cold, so no reheating is needed or recommended.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often make it a few hours early and store it in the refrigerator until I’m ready to serve. It actually tastes better once it’s fully chilled.

What type of watermelon should I use?

I prefer seedless watermelon because it’s easier to blend and strain. The ripest watermelon gives the best flavor, so I look for one with a yellow belly spot and a deep sound when I tap it.

Can I skip straining the juice?

Yes, if I don't mind a more rustic texture, I sometimes skip straining. For a silky-smooth drink, straining is best.

Is there a way to make it less sweet?

Absolutely. I simply reduce the amount of sugar or skip the optional sweeteners altogether. Ripe watermelon usually has enough natural sweetness on its own.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, I freeze leftover lemonade in ice cube trays and use the cubes later in water or to chill another batch without watering it down.

Conclusion

Watermelon Lemonade is one of the easiest, most refreshing drinks I make, especially during summer. I love how customizable it is, and how it only takes a few ingredients to create something so flavorful and satisfying. Whether I’m sipping it solo or serving it to friends, this drink never disappoints.

Watermelon Lemonade

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Author: Sue
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 6 to 8 servings
Category: Beverage
Method: Blending
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

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Description

This Watermelon Lemonade is a refreshing summer beverage combining sweet watermelon with zesty lemon and lime. It's light, hydrating, and easy to customize for sweetness or extra flavors.

Ingredients

4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into 1-2 inch cubes
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
½ cup fresh lemon juice (from about 4 large lemons)
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from 1 large lime)
1-2 tablespoons agave nectar or honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
2 cups cold water
Ice (for serving)
Optional garnishes: fresh mint leaves, watermelon slices, lemon and/or lime slices

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Instructions

Place the cubed watermelon, sugar, and cold water in a blender and blend until smooth.
Strain the juice through a fine mesh sieve into a large pitcher to remove pulp (optional).
Stir in the lemon juice, lime juice, and agave nectar or honey if desired.
Serve over ice and garnish with mint leaves and fruit slices if desired.