Watermelon soft drink

Watermelon Drink: The Perfect Juice for Hot Summer Days

If summer brings you warm and sultry days, there is nothing more enjoyable than refreshing yourself with a juicy watermelon drink, full of flavor and freshness. This simple and quick recipe will transform your watermelon into a delicious beverage that will not only quench your thirst but also deliver an explosion of taste to your taste buds.

Total preparation time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Your main ingredients:
- 1 kg watermelon (make sure to choose a ripe watermelon with a deep color and firm texture)
- 50 g sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences, but I recommend trying this quantity to preserve the natural taste of the watermelon)

A bit of history: Watermelon is a symbol of summer and relaxation. Its origins lie in Africa, where it has been cultivated for thousands of years. This fruit is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. It is an excellent source of hydration, with a water content of about 92%. It is also rich in vitamins, such as vitamin C and A, and contains antioxidants that help protect your cells.

Step by step for a refreshing watermelon juice:

1. Selecting the watermelon: Choose a ripe watermelon. Check if it has a uniform shape, a hollow sound when you tap it lightly, and a yellow spot on one side, indicating it has been left to ripen on the ground.

2. Preparing the watermelon: Wash the watermelon under cold water to remove impurities. With a sharp knife, cut the watermelon in half, then remove the seeds and rind. You can use a spoon to remove the seeds more easily.

3. Cutting: After cleaning the watermelon, cut it into cubes. Make sure they are of uniform size to ensure they blend evenly.

4. Blending: Place the watermelon cubes in a blender. It may be helpful to use a high-powered blender to achieve a smooth juice. Blend until you reach a fluid consistency.

5. Sweetening: Add the sugar to the blender. If you prefer a less sweet juice, you can reduce the amount of sugar or use a natural sweetener, such as honey or agave syrup. Blend again to combine all ingredients well.

6. Serving: Pour the juice into a glass, and for an extra touch of elegance, you can add a few ice cubes. A slice of watermelon on the rim of the glass or a few green mint leaves can add a vibrant and fresh look.

Helpful tips:
- If you want to add a touch of acidity, you can include lemon or lime juice. This will balance the sweetness of the watermelon and make the juice even more refreshing.
- For a unique flavor, you can add a few basil or mint leaves to the blender along with the watermelon.
- You can experiment with other fruits, such as peaches or strawberries, to create interesting flavor combinations.

Tricks for getting the perfect juice:
- Make sure the watermelon is well chilled before preparing it. You can leave the watermelon in the refrigerator for a few hours before using it.
- If you prefer a less thick juice, you can strain the juice through a cheesecloth or fine sieve, removing the pulp.

Combining with other recipes:
This watermelon juice can be served as a refreshing appetizer before a summer meal or as a dessert alongside vanilla ice cream. It is also a perfect accompaniment for barbecues and outdoor meals, bringing a note of freshness alongside your favorite dishes.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use yellow watermelon? Yes, you can replace the red watermelon with yellow watermelon for a different version of the juice. The taste will be slightly different but just as delicious.
- How can I store leftover juice? Watermelon juice can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight bottle for 2-3 days. Make sure to shake it gently before serving, as it may separate.
- Is this juice healthy? Absolutely! Besides being delicious, watermelon juice is an excellent source of hydration and contains few calories, making it a perfect choice for hot days.

Nutritional benefits:
A glass of watermelon juice (about 240 ml) contains approximately 45 calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a refreshing drink without adding many calories. The high water and vitamin content make this juice a great option for a healthy diet.

Enjoy every sip and don’t hesitate to experiment with various combinations! Watermelon juice is more than just a simple drink; it’s an explosion of freshness that will make you feel cool and revitalized on hot summer days.