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Fresh Watermelon Lemonade is one of those summer drinks that always hits the spot, especially when the heat kicks in. This recipe is fresh, fruity, and and has just the right amount of tart for a perfect balance. Serve it over ice and you’ve got instant refreshment!
“One sip of this Watermelon Lemonade and you are instantly ready for summer!”
-Becky
This watermelon lemonade recipe is as easy as it gets. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, lounging by the pool, or just need a cool drink to sip on, this drink delivers. It’s naturally sweet with a bright citrus flavor, and you can easily fancy it up with sparkling water or a few sprigs of fresh mint.
Need a few more easy drinks that the kids will love? Try this classic Shirley Temple or Roy Rogers Drink. You can also have the kids help you make these adorable Cookie Monster Cookies, Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, no bake Hamburger Cookies, or they can help you assemble these colorful Fruit Skewers, that are all perfect summer snacks!
Table of Contents
Ingredients You Will Need
- watermelon – seedless and chilled if possible
- granulated sugar – or use honey for a more natural option
- lemon juice – about 3–4 large lemons
- lime juice – for an extra citrus flavor
- Optional: mint leaves, lemon slices, or watermelon wedges for garnish
A full list of ingredients is included in the recipe card below.
Variations
Make it fizzy: Swap the water for sparkling water for a bubbly twist.
Use simple syrup instead of sugar: Combine one cup of sugar with one cup of water and heat in a saucepan on the stovetop. Keep on medium to high heat, and stir together until the sugar dissolves. Use what you need to reach your desired sweetness.
Infuse lemonade with herbs: Add a few sprigs of mint or basil while it chills.
Turn it into a cocktail: Add a splash of vodka, rum, or gin for an adults only version.
Serve with these 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars or make a batch of Homemade Lemon Curd and these Lemon Curd Cookies, for a fun summer snack table by the pool!
How to Make Watermelon Lemonade
- In a blender, combine the cubed watermelon, water, and sugar (or simple syrup). Blend until smooth.
- If necessary, pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a large pitcher to remove pulp and seeds.
- Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lime juice. Taste and adjust sweetness, if needed.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes. Serve over ice cubes with lemon slices, watermelon slices, or mint sprigs if desired.
Expert Tips
- Use ripe watermelon: The riper and juicier the melon, the sweeter your lemonade will be.
- Roll your lemons and limes: This helps them release more juice before you cut them.
- Strain for a smooth finish: A fine mesh strainer will remove any unwanted pulp from the lemon or lime.
- Chill before serving: It tastes even better cold. Add ice just before pouring to keep it from watering down.
Be sure to serve this lemonade with summer favorites like Baked Mac and Cheese, Smoked Chicken Breast, or Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs.
Watermelon Lemonade FAQs
You can store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5–7 days. It will naturally separate as it sits, so just give it a quick stir before serving.
Yes! This is a great make ahead drink. Prep it the day before your party or picnic and keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve.
Granulated sugar works great, but for a smoother result, dissolve the sugar in warm water first to create a simple syrup. Honey or agave syrup also work as natural alternatives.
Yes! Freeze it into ice cube trays or popsicle molds for a frozen treat or to keep future drinks extra cold without watering them down.
More Easy Summer Recipes
Smoker and BBQ Recipes
Smoked Pork Tenderloin
Smoker and BBQ Recipes
Smoked Mac and Cheese
Breakfast
Homemade Pop Tarts
Desserts
Lego Brownies
If you have tried this recipe or any others from Celebrating Simply, I’d love it if you would leave a ⭐ star rating and share your thoughts in the ✍️ comments below. Your feedback means a lot!
Watermelon Lemonade
Equipment
- Blender
- Pitcher
- Glasses
Ingredients
- 6 cups watermelon, cubed
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lime juice, (juice from one lime)
Instructions
- In a blender, combine the cubed watermelon, water, and sugar (or simple syrup). Blend until smooth.
- If necessary, pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a large pitcher to remove pulp and seeds.
- Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lime juice. Taste and adjust sweetness, if needed.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes. Serve over ice cubes with lemon slices, watermelon slices, or mint sprigs if desired.
Notes
- Use ripe watermelon: The riper and juicier the melon, the sweeter your lemonade will be.
- Roll your lemons and limes: This helps them release more juice before you cut them.
- Strain for a smooth finish: A fine mesh strainer will remove any unwanted pulp from the lemon or lime.
- Chill before serving: It tastes even better cold. Add ice just before pouring to keep it from watering down.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
This is the perfect summer drink!