Description
A refreshing and vibrant Watermelon Lemonade that combines the natural sweetness of watermelon with the tangy brightness of lemon. This easy-to-make summer beverage features a homemade lemon-infused simple syrup, fresh watermelon juice, and freshly squeezed lemon juice, perfect for cooling down on hot days.
Ingredients
Simple Syrup
- 1 and 1/2 cups (298g) granulated sugar
- 1 and 1/2 cups (340ml) water
- 2 strips (1 inch each) lemon peel
Watermelon Lemonade
- 8 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
- 3 cups (681ml) cold water
- 1 and 3/4 cups (171ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Ice (for serving)
- Lemon slices (garnish, optional)
- Watermelon wedges (garnish, optional)
- Fresh mint sprigs (garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Make the Simple Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, and lemon peel. Heat over medium heat, bringing to a simmer. Whisk occasionally to dissolve the sugar completely, cooking for about 5 minutes.
- Cool and Strain Syrup: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the syrup to cool for at least 1 hour. Once cooled, strain the syrup through a fine-mesh strainer to remove the lemon peel and set aside.
- Puree the Watermelon: Place the cubed seedless watermelon into a blender or food processor. Pulse and blend until smooth. Pour the pureed watermelon through a fine mesh strainer into a large bowl to extract the juice and remove pulp.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pitcher, combine the prepared lemon simple syrup, the strained watermelon juice, cold water, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
- Chill the Lemonade: Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and serve chilled.
- Serve: When ready, fill tall glasses halfway with ice cubes. Pour the watermelon lemonade over the ice. Garnish each glass with a small wedge of watermelon, a lemon slice, and a fresh mint sprig if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- The simple syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Straining the watermelon juice ensures a smooth, pulp-free drink, but you can skip this step if you prefer a more textured lemonade.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar to the simple syrup if desired.
- This recipe serves 8 and is perfect for summer parties or refreshing everyday drinks.
- For a sparkling version, substitute plain water with sparkling water before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
