Watermelon Mint Lemonade

This easy watermelon mint lemonade is the perfect drink to complement backyard bbqs, summer parties or any hot summer day.

Our family tradition is to serve it on the kids’ last day of school to signal the start of summer. What memories does lemonade bring to you?

When it’s summer, there’s so much watermelon around it’s a no-brainer to make a sweet watermelon version of homemade lemonade. The simple ingredients combine to make the perfect summer drink.

History of Lemonade

Lemonade is a refreshing drink enjoyed by people all around the world. It is made by combining lemon juice, water and sugar. The history of this popular beverage dates back to ancient times.

There are many theories about the origin of lemonade. Some believe that it was first created in Egypt, while others claim that it originated in Greece. However, the most popular theory is that lemonade was first made in Italy.

The first recorded recipe for lemonade appeared in a book called “The Art of Cookery”, which was published in 1747. This book contained a recipe for a drink made with lemon juice, water and sugar.

In the 18th century, lemonade became very popular in Europe. It was often served at social gatherings and parties.

During the 19th century, lemonade was introduced to the United States. It quickly became a popular drink among Americans. Today there are hundreds of variations of fresh lemonade to enjoy!

Ingredients

Mint Simple Syrup Ingredients:

½ cup granulated cane sugar

½ cup water

¼ cup tightly packed fresh mint leaves, stems removed and crushed

Remaining Ingredients:

6 cup fresh seedless watermelon, cut into chunks

¾ cup fresh lemon juice (6-8 medium lemons)

½ cup cold water, (plus more, if needed)

½ cup fresh mint leaves, tightly packed with stems removed

Ice cubes, to serve

fresh sprigs of mint, for garnish

lemon slices, for garnish

Substitutions

Try agave syrup in place of the cane sugar.

Fresh watermelon out of season? Use watermelon juice concentrate instead.

No fresh mint to be had? Use mint extract, tasting after each three drops until it’s how you like it.

Equipment

Small saucepan

Blender or food processor

Fine mesh strainer

Large pitcher or glass jar

Instructions

1. Prepare the simple syrup by adding the sugar, water and crushed mint to a small saucepan and heat over medium heat to a light boil. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, approximately 2-3 minutes. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and strain pour through the fine-mesh strainer to remove mint leaves. Set aside to cool.
2. Add watermelon chunks, fresh lemon juice, and cold water to a blender and blend until smooth. Pour through a strainer to remove any larger particles. Taste and sweeten with the cooled mint-infused syrup, as desired.
3. Bruise one-half cup fresh mint leaves with fingers to release oils to get a good hint of mint and add the whole thing to a large glass pitcher or jar. Top with the watermelon mixture and stir to combine. To serve, pour over ice and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a slice of lemon. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips

Use fresh fruits and herbs whenever possible – you can usually find all the ingredients at farmer’s markets.

Try mixing it half-and-half with iced tea for a watermelon mint Arnold Palmer!

Serving

Garnish with a sprig of mint in each glass.

Make it a summer cocktail

• Adult beverage version: add a shot of vodka, white rum or your favorite liqour.

Storage Instructions

Pour excess lemonade into an ice cube tray and freeze, then store the cubes in a freezer bag. Thaw in a glass to serve, or use in a fruit smoothie!

Bragging Rights

We would love to see what you did with this recipe!

Comment below or share a photo of your creation @flavorportal / #flavorportal