7 Refreshing Watermelon Drinks for Hot Summer Days
I used to buy sugary drinks for hot afternoons. Then I discovered how easy homemade watermelon drinks are
It’s sweet, juicy, and made mostly of water, which makes it perfect for hot weather. Better yet, watermelon drinks are quick to make. You don’t need fancy tools or a long shopping list. Most of these recipes take 10 minutes or less.
Whether you’re a busy mom, a working woman who needs a quick cooldown, or someone who simply loves fruit, this list has something for you. Let’s dive in.
Why Watermelon Is Great for Summer
Watermelon is about 92% water, so it helps you stay hydrated when it’s hot. It also contains vitamin C, a little vitamin A, and lycopene, a natural plant compound that gives watermelon its red color.
It’s naturally sweet too, so most of these drinks need little or no added sugar. Now, on to the recipes.
1. Classic Watermelon Juice
This is the simplest recipe on the list. It has just two main ingredients and tastes like summer in a glass.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Ice, to serve
Instructions:
- Add the watermelon and lime juice to a blender.
- Blend for 30 to 40 seconds until smooth.
- For a thinner juice, pour it through a fine strainer.
Serving: Pour over ice. Serves 2.
Tip: Chill the watermelon first so you don’t need much ice.
Nutrition (per serving): 90 calories, 23g carbs, 19g sugar, 2g protein.
2. Watermelon Lemonade
Sweet meets tangy in this family favorite. It’s a fun twist on regular lemonade.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups watermelon, cubed
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons honey (or to taste)
- 2 cups cold water
Instructions:
- Blend the watermelon until smooth.
- Strain into a large jug.
- Stir in the lemon juice, honey, and water.
- Taste and add more honey if needed.
Serving: Serve over ice with a lemon slice. Serves 4.
Tip: Make it in the morning and keep it in the fridge for a ready-to-go afternoon treat.
Approximate nutrition (per serving): 75 calories, 19g carbs, 16g sugar, 1g protein.
3. Watermelon Mint Cooler
Inspired by Mexican agua fresca, this drink is light, fragrant, and very refreshing.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups watermelon, cubed
- 1 cup cold water
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
- Add everything to the blender.
- Blend until smooth.
- Strain if you like a silky texture.
Serving: Serve very cold with extra mint on top. Serves 2.
Tip: Gently clap the mint leaves between your hands before using. This helps release more flavor.
Approximate nutrition (per serving): 90 calories, 23g carbs, 19g sugar, 2g protein.
4. Watermelon Strawberry Smoothie
This creamy smoothie makes a great light breakfast or after-school snack.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups watermelon, cubed
- 1 cup strawberries (fresh or frozen)
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 4 to 5 ice cubes
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to the blender.
- Blend until thick and creamy.
- Add a splash of water if it’s too thick.
Serving: Pour into two glasses and enjoy right away. Serves 2.
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Tip: Use frozen strawberries instead of ice for a thicker smoothie that isn’t watered down.
Approximate nutrition (per serving): 110 calories, 5g protein, 20g carbs, 15g sugar.
5. Frozen Watermelon Slush
Kids love this one, and so will you. It’s like a snow cone, only healthier.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups frozen watermelon cubes
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ cup cold water
Instructions:
- Cut the watermelon and freeze the cubes on a tray for at least 3 hours.
- Add the frozen cubes, lime juice, honey, and water to the blender.
- Blend until slushy, stopping to stir if needed.
Serving: Serve right away in cups with a spoon or wide straw. Serves 2.
Tip: Freeze a big batch of cubes on Sunday. You’ll have slush ready all week.
Approximate nutrition (per serving): 120 calories, 30g carbs, 25g sugar, 2g protein.
6. Watermelon Cucumber Water
If you want something lighter and less sweet, this spa-style water is a great choice. It’s a lovely way to drink more water during the day.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups watermelon, cubed
- ½ cucumber, thinly sliced
- A handful of mint leaves
- 6 cups cold water
Instructions:
- Place the watermelon, cucumber, and mint in a large pitcher.
- Add the water and stir gently.
- Chill for at least 1 hour so the flavors can blend.
Serving: Pour over ice. Serves 6.
Tip: Use the fruit-infused water within 24 hours for the best taste.
Approximate nutrition (per serving): Under 20 calories, 4g carbs, 3g sugar.
7. Watermelon Coconut Refresher
This tropical drink is great after a workout or a long day in the sun.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups watermelon, cubed
- 1 cup coconut water
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Blend the watermelon and coconut water until smooth.
- Stir in the lime juice.
- Pour over a glass full of ice.
Serving: Garnish with a lime wedge. Serves 2.
Tip: Choose unsweetened coconut water to keep the drink light.
Approximate nutrition (per serving): 95 calories, 23g carbs, 18g sugar, 2g protein.
Simple Tips for Better Watermelon Drinks
A few small tricks can make a big difference:
- Pick a good melon. Choose one that feels heavy for its size, with a creamy yellow spot on one side.
- Go seedless. It saves time and keeps your drinks smooth.
- Chill first. Cold fruit makes tastier drinks.
- Adjust the sweetness. Ripe watermelon is often sweet enough, so add honey slowly.
- Store leftovers. Keep blended drinks in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir or shake before serving, since natural separation is normal.
A Quick Note on Nutrition
The numbers above are estimates and will vary with the size of your watermelon and the brands you use. On its own, one cup of diced watermelon has about 46 calories, 11g of carbs, and very little fat. Most of the sugar in these drinks comes naturally from the fruit.
If you’re watching your sugar, try the Watermelon Cucumber Water or skip the honey in the other recipes.
Cool Off the Easy Way
Hot days don’t have to mean store-bought sodas or complicated recipes. With just a blender and a few simple ingredients, you can make delicious watermelon drinks your whole family will love.
Start with the classic juice, or go for the slush if you have little ones at home. Try one recipe this week, then work your way through the list.
Want More Watermelon Ideas?
Love these recipes? Download my FREE Watermelon Recipe eBook and get even more easy, fruity ideas for breakfast, snacks, desserts, and more.
Click here to grab your free eBook now!
Which drink will you try first? Let me know in the responses below!
