Watermelon Lemonade
Nothing says summer quite like fresh watermelon, and this homemade watermelon lemonade is one of our favourite ways to enjoy it. It’s light, naturally sweetened with honey, and comes together in just 10 minutes using only a handful of ingredients.
Whether you’re serving it at a backyard BBQ, enjoying it on the patio, or looking for a refreshing afternoon drink, this lemonade is guaranteed to become a summer staple.
Why You’ll Love It
- Ready in just 10 minutes
- Naturally sweetened with honey
- Made with real watermelon and fresh lemons
- Perfect for entertaining or hot summer afternoons
- Easily garnished with fresh mint or basil
Quick Recipe Summary
Blend fresh watermelon, strain the juice, then stir in lemon juice and honey. Serve over plenty of ice with fresh herbs for an incredibly refreshing homemade lemonade.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Seedless watermelon
- Fresh lemons
- Honey
- Ice
- Fresh mint or basil
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Fresh, ripe watermelon will give you the sweetest flavour. If your watermelon isn’t particularly sweet, simply add another tablespoon of honey.
Both mint and basil work beautifully here. Mint gives the drink a classic, cooling finish, while basil adds a slightly peppery, elevated flavour that’s perfect for summer dinners.
If you prefer a slightly tangier lemonade, simply add the juice of an extra lemon.
How to Make Watermelon Lemonade
Blend the watermelon until smooth, then strain it through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher.
Add the fresh lemon juice and honey, stirring until the honey has dissolved completely.
Add plenty of ice and stir once more before pouring into glasses.
Finish with fresh mint or basil and enjoy immediately.
Pro Tips
- Chill the watermelon before blending for an extra cold drink.
- Press firmly when straining to get as much juice as possible.
- Serve immediately for the freshest flavour.
- Freeze extra watermelon cubes to use instead of ice so the drink doesn’t become diluted.
Common Mistakes
Skipping the straining: This leaves the lemonade pulpy instead of smooth.
Using bottled lemon juice: Fresh lemons make a noticeable difference.
Not tasting before serving: Every watermelon is different, so adjust the honey or lemon juice if needed.
Storage
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving since natural separation is expected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare it a day in advance and add the ice just before serving.
Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Freeze it into ice cubes for future drinks or blend the frozen cubes into a watermelon slush.
Can I use another sweetener?
Yes. Maple syrup or simple syrup can be substituted, although honey pairs especially well with the watermelon and lemon.
Watermelon Lemonade
Equipment
- Blender
Ingredients
- 1 small seedless watermelon about 6-7 cups cubed, blended and strained
- Juice of 2 lemons about 1/2 cup
- 4 tbsp honey
- 2-3 cups ice
- Fresh mint or basil for garnish
- Lemon slices optional for serving
Instructions
- Cube the watermelon and blend until completely smooth.
- Pour the blended watermelon through a fine mesh strainer into a large pitcher, pressing with a spoon to extract as much juice as possible.
- Add the fresh lemon juice and honey. Stir well until the honey has completely dissolved.
- Fill the pitcher with ice and stir again until chilled.
- Taste and adjust with a little more honey or lemon juice if desired.
- Pour into glasses filled with ice and garnish with fresh mint or basil and a lemon slice, if using.
