When the sun’s blazing and you need something cold and revitalizing, just pick up a glass of watermelon juice. This hydrating juice is more than just a summer drink due to the fact that it’s a naturally refreshing beverage packed with flavor and is perfect for beating the heat. Whenever you need a cold drink to cool down indoors, this natural juice made with no added sugar delivers the ultimate hot weather drink. Thanks to its naturally sweet taste and bright, tropical flavor, it’s the kind of tropical drink you’ll want on repeat all season long. Best of all? This summer cooler is quick to make, super satisfying, and ideal for anyone looking for a healthy, homemade juice.
If you’ve got fresh watermelon on hand, this quick juice recipe is exactly what your summer needs. This is an easy juice recipe that doesn’t need any fancy equipment. It’s a 3-ingredient drink that takes under 10 minutes and is ideal when you’re craving summer hydration. It is a low-calorie drink with a smooth texture that feels like a spa treat at home.
So what goes into making this deliciously chilled glass of sunshine?
Ingredients Needed:
Every time I make this juice, I start with a ripe watermelon. A small watermelon usually works for 2-3 servings. Here’s a quick checklist of what you need:
- 1 seedless watermelon (or remove seeds manually)
- ¼ cup lime juice or fresh lime
- 1 tbsp ginger juice (optional for a spicy kick)
- A handful of fresh mint leaves
- 1 cup crushed ice or ice cubes
- Sparkling water (optional) for fizz lovers
- Tools: high-speed blender, nut milk bag or cheesecloth, large bowl, and a pitcher
With your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the actual method to blend this fruit-based beverage.
Instructions:
I usually cut the watermelon in half first. Then I scoop with a spoon or melon baller to extract the fruit. Next, I add everything to my high-speed blender and blend until smooth. If you want an ultra-clear juice, strain it through a mesh sieve or go for a finer texture by using a nut milk bag or cheesecloth.
Here’s my routine:
- Cut the watermelon in half
- Scoop with a spoon or a melon baller
- Add chunks to the blender
- Add lime juice, ginger juice, and crushed ice
- Blend until smooth
- Strain with a nut milk bag or cheesecloth into a large bowl
- Pour into the pitcher
- Stir in lime juice (if not added earlier)
- Pour into glasses, add ice cubes, and serve chilled
Sometimes, I freeze glasses for 15 minutes before serving to keep the juice extra cold. If you make a large batch, store it in the fridge and stir before serving. It’s best to serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Now, if you’re the adventurous type like me, you might be wondering what fun twists you can try with this base recipe…
More Flavor Variations You Can Try
Exploring mocktail-style drinks from this base of watermelon juice has become one of my summer traditions. You can play with creative juice ideas, add a fizzy twist with sparkling water, or make infused drinks with fresh herbs and fruits.
Here are some fun summer drinks you can try:
Watermelon Mint Juice
- Add mint leaves while blending
- Garnish with fresh mint or a mint-infused juice twist
- Sweeten with mint simple syrup for a cooling flavor
- Think herbal twist, minty drink, and summer herb juice
Watermelon And Strawberry Juice
- Blend in a cup of fresh strawberries
- This creates a strawberry blend or watermelon strawberry fusion
- It becomes a sweet berry drink with a vibrant pink juice hue
- Think berry twist and mixed fruit juice
Watermelon Orange Juice
- Add orange segments or orange juice
- Makes a citrus blend or watermelon citrus mix
- This adds a vitamin C boost and creates a perfect breakfast juice blend
- A sweet and tangy treat that feels like a tropical citrus drink
Watermelon Lime Juice
- Enhance the lime flavor with zest
- Add lime zest or a lime wedge garnish
- Gives a tart twist and zingy finish to the lime-infused juice
With all these delicious possibilities, it helps to know how to store them right so they stay fresh longer.
Storage Tips:
Fresh juice tastes best immediately, but if you’re making extra, here’s how I store mine:
- Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container
- Store in a pitcher if drinking within a day
- Refrigerate leftovers and stir to recombine (juice separation is normal)
- Freeze juice into popsicles using ice pop molds
- Always serve fresh or drink immediately after blending for full flavor
- It keeps for up to 4 days, though fresher is always better
Wondering why this juice is more than just tasty? Let me share the health perks I’ve come to appreciate.
Nutritional Benefits of Watermelon Juice:
Aside from being a hydrating drink, watermelon is made up of 92% water content, making it ideal for post-workout hydration or general summer refreshment. I often recommend it to friends as a cooling effect remedy.
Other health benefits:
- High in vitamin A and vitamin C
- Provides potassium, which supports muscle function
- A low-calorie option perfect for snacking
- Contains rich antioxidants such as lycopene, supporting immune health
- Good for skin and helps boost hydration naturally
- Ideal as a naturally rehydrating juice for active people
More Related Juice Recipes:
- Carrot Juice
- Juice recipes for beginners
- Juice for gut health
- Detox Juice Recipes
- Summer Juice Recipes
Now let’s answer some common questions people often ask me about this drink.
FAQs About Watermelon Juice:
Can I juice watermelon with seeds?
Yes, but it’s better to remove black seeds before blending to avoid bitterness. Straining helps remove pulp and seeds. A seedless watermelon is preferred for ease and smooth texture.
Is watermelon juice good for weight loss?
Absolutely. It’s low in calories, contains no added sugar, and is a great sugar-free option. Plus, it helps with aiding digestion and is a healthy beverage choice that supports hydration for metabolism.
How much watermelon makes 1 cup of juice?
Usually, 1.5–2 cups of cubed watermelon yields 1 cup of juice. I find that 8 cups of cubed juice, but it depends on the watermelon size and pulp. Remember, juicing yield varies.
Can I use frozen watermelon chunks?
Yes! It gives a slushy texture that’s incredibly refreshing. Frozen chunks = thicker juice, and they’re great for smoothies too. You can blend without ice and enjoy a refreshing frozen version.
Can I add milk to watermelon juice?
Adding milk to watermelon juice is not recommended, as the fruit’s high water content can cause the milk to curdle, leading to a sour taste. This reaction happens due to the acidic nature of watermelon, especially when combined with lime juice. For a creamy twist, consider blending with nut milk like almond or coconut instead.
What you shouldn’t eat or drink with watermelon?
Avoid pairing watermelon with dairy products like milk, as its acidic and watery nature can lead to digestive discomfort or curdling in the stomach. Also, avoid combining it with alcohol, especially beer, since it may cause bloating or indigestion. It’s best to enjoy this hydrating juice or fruit-based beverage alone or with other light, water-rich fruits like strawberries or oranges for smooth digestion.