How can I make this lemonade less sweet?

Reduce the sugar or agave to your taste, or increase the lemon or lime juice for a tangier flavor. Taste as you go, adjusting gradually.

Can I prepare it in advance?

Yes, prepare and chill the blended juice a few hours in advance. Add ice and garnishes right before serving to keep it fresh.

What are some fun garnish ideas?

Use watermelon wedges, lemon or lime rounds, fresh mint sprigs, or even edible flowers to add color and aroma to each glass.

Is it possible to make this without added sugar?

Absolutely. Choose a sweet, ripe watermelon and skip extra sugar or agave. The natural fruit sweetness will shine through.

Can I add alcohol for an adult version?

Add a splash of vodka or gin to the pitcher or individual glasses to transform this into a refreshing summer cocktail.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep in a covered pitcher in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Stir before serving, as natural separation may occur.

Watermelon Lemonade with Fresh Citrus and Mint

A glass of red drink with a slice of lemon and mint. | sweetbyemma.com

This Watermelon Lemonade is the ultimate summer refresher kids and adults will love it poolside or at a backyard cookout. With just a handful of ingredients and quick prep this bright pink drink delivers fruity flavor that balances tangy citrus with the natural sweetness of watermelon.

I first whipped up this lemonade for an impromptu block party and the empty pitcher told me everything I needed to know. Now every time the weather heats up my friends beg for the recipe

Ingredients

Seedless watermelon: cubed the juicier and riper it is the better your lemonade will taste
Ice cold water: helps everything blend smoothly and keeps your drink refreshingly cool
Granulated sugar: adds sweetness and balances the citrus tartness use superfine sugar for easier dissolving if you can
Lemon juice: brings brightness and classic tang opt for fresh squeezed for the cleanest flavor
Lime juice: adds another layer of citrus zing from one large super juicy lime
Agave nectar or honey or maple syrup: this optional sweetener lets you tweak for extra flavor or a touch more sweetness
Fresh mint leaves, watermelon, lemon, or lime slices for garnish: pick perky leaves and vibrant fruit for pretty presentation

Step-by-Step Instructions

Blend the Watermelon and Sugar:: Combine cubed watermelon water and sugar in a blender. Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth. I like to use the smoothie setting twice just for good measure.
Strain for Smoothness:: Pour the blended watermelon mixture through a fine mesh strainer placed over a large pitcher or bowl. Use a spoon to gently press and help the juice flow through leaving behind the pulp for an ultra smooth drink.
Add Citrus and Optional Sweetener:: Stir in the lemon juice lime juice and agave nectar if using. Mix well until everything is dissolved and the flavors are blended together.
Sweetness Check and Adjust:: Taste your lemonade. If you prefer it sweeter or your watermelon is not at peak sweetness add a little more sugar honey or agave to fit your taste.
Serve and Enjoy:: Fill glasses with ice pour over the watermelon lemonade and finish with fresh mint leaves and a wedge of watermelon lemon or lime for a gorgeous touch.

A glass of watermelon juice with a slice of watermelon and lemon. | sweetbyemma.com

This recipe has become my pool party signature and my favorite part is the playful pink color which makes every glass look like a celebration. The very first time I made it my son suggested extra mint and now that has become our family twist

Storage tips

Keep leftovers in a sealed pitcher or jar in the fridge for up to three days. Give it a good stir before pouring as some separation is natural. I sometimes freeze cubes of the lemonade for instant chilling without watering it down next time

Ingredient substitutions

Maple syrup or honey both work in place of agave nectar. If you have extra tart lemons you might want a touch more sweetener. For more citrus flavor try orange juice instead of lime

Serving suggestions

Serve over crushed ice for an extra frosty treat. For parties add a splash of sparkling water right before serving for a fizzy twist. Pair with grilled food or summer salads for a cooling contrast

Cultural and historical context

Lemonade stands as one of the classic American summer drinks and blending it with ripe watermelon is a modern update that has become a favorite at summer gatherings coast to coast. The combo of fruit and citrus has roots in punch bowls served at celebrations for generations

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I make this lemonade less sweet?: Reduce the sugar or agave to your taste, or increase the lemon or lime juice for a tangier flavor. Taste as you go, adjusting gradually.
→ Can I prepare it in advance?: Yes, prepare and chill the blended juice a few hours in advance. Add ice and garnishes right before serving to keep it fresh.
→ What are some fun garnish ideas?: Use watermelon wedges, lemon or lime rounds, fresh mint sprigs, or even edible flowers to add color and aroma to each glass.
→ Is it possible to make this without added sugar?: Absolutely. Choose a sweet, ripe watermelon and skip extra sugar or agave. The natural fruit sweetness will shine through.
→ Can I add alcohol for an adult version?: Add a splash of vodka or gin to the pitcher or individual glasses to transform this into a refreshing summer cocktail.
→ How do I store leftovers?: Keep in a covered pitcher in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Stir before serving, as natural separation may occur.

Watermelon Lemonade Summer Drink