If you’ve been looking for the perfect thirst-quencher that screams sunshine and good vibes, Watermelon Lemonade is the answer you didn’t know you needed. Right after a long walk, a poolside hangout, or a backyard BBQ, there’s nothing more satisfying than sipping on something naturally sweet, citrusy-bright, and ice-cold. Watermelon Lemonade is that dream in a glass—and I’m beyond excited to share it with you today!
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What Is Watermelon Lemonade?
Watermelon lemonade is exactly what it sounds like: a gorgeous blend of fresh watermelon purée and freshly squeezed lemon juice, lightly sweetened and served icy cold. It’s an absolute crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike—vibrant pink, naturally hydrating, and so easy to make.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Watermelon Lemonade
Let me count the ways:
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Insanely refreshing – thanks to watermelon’s 92% water content!
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Naturally sweet – you can totally skip or adjust the added sugar.
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Beautiful and vibrant – that ruby red-pink hue makes any pitcher look like a party.
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Quick to whip up – no cooking involved, just blend, mix, and chill.
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Perfect for any occasion – picnics, barbecues, brunches, or lazy afternoons.
What Does Watermelon Lemonade Taste Like?
Picture this: the light, juicy sweetness of watermelon meets the punchy, tangy brightness of lemon. It’s both sweet and sour in the most balanced way, and the freshness practically jumps out of the glass. Served over ice, it’s like drinking a fruity breeze!
Health Benefits of Watermelon Lemonade
This is more than just a pretty drink—it’s a feel-good, do-good beverage!
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Hydrating – great for hot days or after workouts.
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Loaded with antioxidants from both watermelon and lemon (hello, Vitamin C and lycopene!).
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Low in calories – especially if you reduce or skip the sweetener.
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Naturally vegan and gluten-free.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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4 cups cubed seedless watermelon (chilled if possible)
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3/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 4–6 lemons)
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1/4 to 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey, or sugar to taste
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2 cups cold water
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Ice, for serving
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Optional: mint leaves, lemon slices, or extra watermelon wedges for garnish
Tools You’ll Need
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A blender (immersion or countertop)
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A fine mesh strainer (optional, for smoother texture)
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A large pitcher
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A citrus juicer (manual or electric)
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Glasses and a serving spoon or ladle
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions
Substitutions:
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Lime juice instead of lemon for a tropical twist
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Agave syrup or coconut sugar as natural sweeteners
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Use sparkling water for a fizzy version!
Additions:
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A handful of fresh mint or basil for a herby aroma
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A splash of vodka or rum for adult gatherings (wink wink)
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A few slices of cucumber for a spa-day touch
How to Make Watermelon Lemonade Step-by-Step
Step 1: Blend the Watermelon
Add the watermelon cubes to your blender and blend until completely smooth. If you want a pulp-free lemonade, strain the purée through a fine mesh sieve into a large bowl or pitcher.
Step 2: Juice the Lemons
While the watermelon is blending, juice your lemons and remove any seeds. Add the lemon juice to the watermelon purée.
Step 3: Sweeten It Up
Stir in your sweetener of choice, starting with a little and adding more to taste. The amount depends on how sweet your watermelon is!
Step 4: Add Water and Chill
Stir in the cold water. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tartness if needed. Pop it into the fridge for at least 30 minutes—or serve immediately over ice if you’re too thirsty to wait!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Pour over ice and garnish with lemon slices, mint, or a mini watermelon wedge on the rim. Cheers!
What to Serve with Watermelon Lemonade
Pair this vibrant drink with:
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Grilled corn on the cob
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Fresh summer salads (think cucumber, feta, and mint!)
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Veggie skewers or grilled chicken
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A fruit platter for extra refreshing vibes
Honestly, this lemonade goes with just about everything summery. I love serving it at brunches with scones or even light pasta dishes.
Pro Tips for the Best Watermelon Lemonade
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Use ripe watermelon – it should be deep pink/red and smell sweet.
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Adjust sugar slowly – taste as you go, since watermelon can vary in sweetness.
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Chill everything beforehand – cold ingredients mean less melting ice, and more flavor.
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Double it for a crowd – this recipe scales beautifully!
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Add herbs just before serving – so they stay bright and don’t overpower.
How to Store Leftover Watermelon Lemonade
Store any leftovers in an airtight pitcher or mason jar in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving again, as natural separation may occur. You can also freeze the lemonade in ice cube trays and blend later for a slushy treat!
Fun Watermelon Lemonade Facts
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Watermelon is originally from Africa and is now grown in over 100 countries.
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Lemons were once so rare in Europe, they were gifted between kings!
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Watermelon lemonade was a trending beverage during music festivals in the early 2010s—and it’s still got the vibe!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this lemonade ahead of time?
Yes! Make it up to a day ahead and store in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving.
Do I need to strain the watermelon?
Not necessarily—it’s a texture preference. Some love it smooth and silky, others enjoy a bit of pulp!
Can I use frozen watermelon?
Yes! Frozen watermelon makes an amazing slushy version. Blend directly with lemon juice and sweetener, skipping the added water.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Just skip the alcohol if you’re making an adult version.
Conclusion
There you have it—Watermelon Lemonade in all its juicy, citrusy glory. It’s quick, wholesome, absolutely gorgeous, and made for warm, lazy afternoons. Whether you’re making a solo glass or a big batch for friends, this recipe never fails to hit the spot.
Looking for more fruity refreshers? Check out my:
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[Peach Iced Tea with Mint]
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[Strawberry Basil Lemonade]
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[Cucumber Lime Agua Fresca]
Tried this recipe? Leave a review and tag me on Pinterest—I’d love to see your beautiful pitchers and garnishes!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 Cup)
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Calories: 70
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Carbohydrates: 17g
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Sugars: 14g (varies by sweetener)
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Vitamin C: 30% DV
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Fat: 0g
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Fiber: 0.5g
Watermelon Lemonade
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Watermelon Lemonade is the ultimate summer thirst-quencher—naturally sweet, citrusy-bright, and refreshingly ice-cold. A gorgeous drink that’s as beautiful as it is hydrating.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed seedless watermelon (chilled if possible)
- 3/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 4–6 lemons)
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey, or sugar to taste
- 2 cups cold water
- Ice, for serving
- Optional: mint leaves, lemon slices, or extra watermelon wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Add the watermelon cubes to your blender and blend until completely smooth. If desired, strain through a fine mesh sieve for a smoother texture.
- Juice the lemons and remove any seeds. Add the lemon juice to the watermelon purée.
- Stir in your sweetener of choice, starting with a little and adding more to taste.
- Stir in the cold water. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tartness if needed. Chill for at least 30 minutes or serve immediately over ice.
- Pour over ice and garnish with lemon slices, mint, or a mini watermelon wedge. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Use ripe, sweet watermelon for best flavor. Adjust sweetener based on watermelon sweetness. Chill ingredients beforehand for the most refreshing experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: watermelon lemonade, summer drink, refreshing, citrus, hydrating