This watermelon juice recipe is exactly that—light, naturally sweet, and so refreshing it practically melts the heat away. I first made this on a sticky July afternoon when Lily kept asking for "something pink and cold," and now it's our go-to whenever the temperature climbs. It takes less than 10 minutes from start to finish, and you probably already have everything you need.
If you're looking for more easy drinks to keep you cool, try this Healthy Pineapple Smoothie Recipe or this Blue Raspberry Lemonade (Ready in 16 Minutes!)—they're just as simple and delicious.
Why This Watermelon Juice Drink Is Perfect for Hot Days
Watermelon Juice is one of those recipes that feels fancy but couldn't be easier. You don't need any special equipment, just a blender and a ripe watermelon. The strawberries add a soft sweetness that makes the flavor a little more interesting, and the crushed ice turns it into something you can sip slowly on the porch. It's hydrating, naturally sweet, and light enough that you can have a big glass without feeling weighed down.
I love making this when we have friends over or when I just want something that feels like a treat without all the fuss. My neighbor Sophia tried it last summer and immediately asked for the recipe—she said it reminded her of the fresh fruit drinks her grandmother used to make. That's the thing about homemade Watermelon Juice. It just tastes better.
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Watermelon Juice Ingredients
Here's a short list of simple ingredients that come together into something really special.
See the recipe card at the bottom for ingredient measurements.
- Watermelon: The star of the show. A quarter of a watermelon gives you about 2 large glasses, so adjust based on how many people you're serving. Look for one that feels heavy and sounds hollow when you tap it.
- Strawberries: These add a hint of berry sweetness and a beautiful color. Fresh is best, but frozen works too if that's what you have.
- Sugar: Just a touch to balance the flavor. You can skip it if your watermelon is super sweet, or add a little more if you like things sweeter.
- Water: Helps everything blend smoothly and keeps the texture light.
- Crushed ice: Turns this into a cold, slushy drink that's perfect for hot days. You can use regular ice cubes if that's easier.
How to Make Fresh Watermelon Juice
This Watermelon Juice comes together in just a few easy steps, and you don't need any fancy skills.
Cut the watermelon: Start by slicing your watermelon into quarters. Use a large spoon to scoop out one quarter's worth of chunks, removing any seeds as you go, and add them directly to your blender.
Prep the strawberries: Rinse 4 strawberries under cold water, then cut off the green tops. Toss them into the blender with the watermelon and give everything a quick pulse to break it down.
Add the rest: Pour in ⅛ cup of sugar, ⅛ cup of water, and 1 cup of crushed ice. Blend on high until everything is smooth and frothy, usually about 30 seconds to a minute. If it feels too thick, add a splash more water.
Serve immediately: Pour into tall glasses and enjoy right away while it's cold and fresh. You can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve if you prefer a smoother texture, but I like it just as it is. If you want to make this even more fun, serve it alongside an Easy Strawberry Smoothie—they pair beautifully together.
Simple Swaps and Substitutions
This Watermelon Juice is flexible, so feel free to make it your own.
- No strawberries? Use raspberries, blueberries, or even a handful of cherries for a different twist.
- Sugar-free option: Skip the sugar entirely and let the watermelon's natural sweetness shine, or use a bit of honey or agave if you prefer.
- Make it a slushie: Add an extra half cup of ice and blend until thick and frosty.
- Add mint: A few fresh mint leaves give it a cool, spa-like flavor that's really refreshing.
Equipment For Watermelon Juice
You don't need much to make this watermelon beverage, just a few basic kitchen tools.
- Blender: Any blender works, but a high-speed one makes it smoother faster.
- Large knife: For cutting the watermelon into quarters.
- Spoon: To scoop out the watermelon chunks.
- Measuring cups: For the sugar and water.
How to Store Watermelon Juice
This juice tastes best when it's fresh, but you can store leftovers if you need to.
- Refrigerator: Pour any extra into a jar or pitcher with a lid and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Give it a good stir before serving, as it may separate a bit.
- Freezer: You can freeze it in ice cube trays and blend the cubes later for a quick slushie.
Just know that the texture and flavor are brightest right after blending, so try to make only what you'll drink that day.
Serving Suggestions
This fresh fruit juice is delicious on its own, but here are a few ways to enjoy it.
- Pour it over a bowl of mixed berries for a light fruit salad.
- Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a summery lunch.
- Mix it with sparkling water for a fizzy, mocktail-style drink.
- Freeze it into Popsicles for an easy homemade treat.
Expert Tips
- Use cold watermelon: If your watermelon has been sitting in the fridge, the juice will be even more refreshing. If it's room temperature, just add a little extra ice.
- Taste as you go: Every watermelon is different. Some are super sweet, others are more mild. Taste the juice before you pour it and adjust the sugar if needed.
- Don't skip the ice: It makes the drink thicker and colder, which is exactly what you want on a hot day.
- Blend in batches: If you're using a whole watermelon, don't try to cram everything in at once. Work in batches and combine everything at the end.
FAQ
Is drinking watermelon juice good for you?
Yes, watermelon juice is hydrating, low in calories, and packed with vitamins like A and C. It's a great way to stay refreshed, especially in the summer. Just keep in mind that blending removes the fiber, so eating fresh watermelon is even better if you want the full nutritional benefit. My mom always says a cold glass of this is better than any sugary store-bought drink.
What can I blend with watermelon?
Watermelon pairs beautifully with strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, mint, lime, cucumber, and even a little ginger. You can also add coconut water instead of regular water for a tropical twist.
Is there a pure watermelon juice?
Absolutely. If you want pure watermelon juice, just blend the watermelon chunks with a bit of water and skip everything else. You won't need sugar if the watermelon is ripe and sweet. Strain it if you prefer a smoother drink.
How to make juice watermelon?
Cut your watermelon into chunks, remove the seeds, and add it to a blender with a splash of water and some ice. Blend until smooth, then pour and enjoy. You can add a little sugar or lime if you like, but the watermelon itself is naturally delicious.
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Pairing
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Watermelon Juice
Ingredients
Method
- Cut the watermelon into quarters, and scoop one quarter into your blender.
- Remove the tops from the strawberries and add them to the blender.
- Add the sugar, water, and ice into the blender.
- Blend until smooth, then pour into glasses.
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