Watermelon lemonade

Watermelon lemonade: a refreshing and vibrant drink

Who doesn't love a refreshing lemonade on a hot summer day? This watermelon lemonade recipe is a true treat for the senses, combining the juicy sweetness of watermelon with the pleasant acidity of lemon. With a vibrant taste and an attractive color, this drink not only refreshes but also delights the eyes. It is perfect for serving during relaxing moments in the garden or at parties with friends.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 800 g watermelon flesh, seedless
- 3 small lemons
- 400 ml water
- 3 tablespoons sugar (preferably organic sugar)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra flavor)
- Ice cubes for serving
- Fresh mint or basil leaves for garnish (if available, otherwise no problem)

The story behind the lemonade
Lemonade is a drink with a long history, loved by generations. Its origins are lost in the mists of time, but it is known to have been appreciated as a way to combat heat and hydrate the body. Adding watermelon brings an innovative touch, taking this classic drink to another level, full of freshness and vitality.

Step-by-step preparation technique

1. Preparing the sugar syrup:
Start by heating 400 ml of water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the 3 tablespoons of sugar and stir constantly until the sugar completely dissolves. Once melted, turn off the heat and let the syrup cool. This syrup will provide an even sweetness in the lemonade, without sugar granules.

2. Preparing the watermelon:
While the syrup cools, prepare the watermelon. Cut the watermelon into small pieces and remove any remaining seeds. Place the flesh in a blender and blend until smooth. If you prefer a more homogeneous texture, you can strain the watermelon through a fine sieve to remove any fibers.

3. Juicing the lemons:
In the meantime, juice the 3 lemons using a juicer. Make sure no seeds remain in your juice, as they can give a bitter taste to the lemonade. This step is essential, as the lemon juice will add a note of freshness and balance the sweetness of the watermelon.

4. Mixing the ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the watermelon puree with the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Then, add the cooled sugar syrup and mix well. You can adjust the sweetness of the drink to taste by adding more sugar or honey if desired.

5. Straining the drink:
Use a fine sieve to strain the mixture into a serving container, ensuring a velvety consistency. This step helps eliminate any pulp pieces and achieve a perfect lemonade.

6. Serving:
Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour in the watermelon lemonade. Garnish with mint or basil leaves for a fresh look and extra flavor. I recommend serving immediately to fully enjoy the freshness of this drink.

Useful tips for a perfect result
- Choose the right watermelon: Buy a ripe watermelon, with a uniform skin and no spots. A ripe watermelon will provide natural sweetness and better taste.
- Chilling: If you have time, let the lemonade chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving. This will enhance the flavors and make the drink even more refreshing.
- Ingredient variations: You can experiment by adding a few basil leaves to the blender for a flavorful twist. Additionally, by replacing some of the water with sparkling water, you can achieve a fizzier lemonade.

Nutritional benefits
This watermelon lemonade is not only delicious but also beneficial for health. Watermelon is rich in water (almost 92%), making it a perfect food for hydration. It is also a good source of vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and essential amino acids. Lemons, in turn, are known for their detoxifying properties and their ability to support the immune system.

Frequently asked questions
1. What can I use instead of lemons?
You can try using lime juice for a more exotic note.

2. Can I add alcohol?
Sure! This lemonade is also great with a splash of vodka or white rum, transforming it into a perfect summer cocktail.

3. How can I store the lemonade?
The lemonade keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to enjoy all the flavors.

Serving recommendations
This watermelon lemonade pairs perfectly with a light summer salad or grilled dishes. It is also an excellent accompaniment to a refreshing dessert, such as vanilla ice cream or lemon sorbet.

In conclusion, this watermelon lemonade recipe not only offers a unique tasting experience but also an opportunity to enjoy special moments with loved ones. Try it yourself and let yourself be carried away by the wave of flavors and freshness!