Print

Refreshing Sparkling Watermelon Mint Lemonade

sparkling watermelon mint lemonade - featured image

A quick and easy homemade summer drink combining the sweetness of watermelon, the tartness of fresh lemon juice, and the coolness of mint with sparkling water for a refreshing and hydrating beverage.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (600 grams) seedless watermelon, cubed
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) fresh lemon juice (from 2 large lemons)
  • 1012 fresh mint leaves, washed and gently muddled
  • 3 cups (720 ml) sparkling water, chilled
  • 12 tablespoons (1530 ml) honey or agave syrup (optional)
  • Ice cubes

Instructions

  1. Cut about 4 cups (600 grams) of seedless watermelon into chunks. Place them in a blender and pulse until smooth (1-2 minutes). For a pulp-free lemonade, strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing with a spoon to extract all juice.
  2. Place 10-12 fresh mint leaves in a sturdy glass or small bowl. Use a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon to gently bruise the leaves to release their oils without tearing them (about 30 seconds).
  3. Roll 2 large lemons on the counter to loosen juices, then cut in half and squeeze by hand or with a citrus juicer until you have about 1/3 cup (80 ml) fresh lemon juice. Strain out seeds if needed.
  4. In a large pitcher, combine the watermelon juice, muddled mint (including leaves), and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir well to blend the flavors. Taste and add 1 to 2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) of honey or agave syrup if the watermelon isn’t very sweet, stirring until dissolved.
  5. Just before serving, pour about 3 cups (720 ml) of chilled sparkling water into the pitcher. Stir gently to combine without losing too much fizz. Add plenty of ice cubes to keep it cold and refreshing.
  6. Pour into glasses, garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a small wedge of watermelon, and enjoy immediately for best flavor and effervescence.

Notes

Use ripe watermelon for best sweetness. Gently muddle mint leaves to avoid bitterness. Add sparkling water just before serving to keep fizz. Ice cubes can be added to glasses individually to avoid dilution. Prepare watermelon and lemon juice base ahead and refrigerate separately from sparkling water and ice.

Nutrition

Keywords: sparkling watermelon mint lemonade, summer drink, refreshing beverage, homemade lemonade, sparkling water drink, mint lemonade, watermelon drink