Refreshing watermelon mocktails are a fun way to beat the heat and keep hydrated this summer. This family-friendly pitcher drink is packed with juicy watermelon flavor and a kick of fresh mint.
What you’ll love about this recipe:
- A Healther Option. Filled with nutrients, antioxidants, and particularly hydrating for those hot summer days.
- Easy. Make a pitcher of this watermelon-lime mocktail in just a few minutes, then spend the rst of the day kicking back and enjoying it.
- Gluten Free, Vegan, and Non-Alcoholic.
Conquer the Heat with the Ultimate Watermelon Mocktail!
I’m gonna let you in on a secret: I don’t really love watermelon.
I know, I’m a freak.
There’s just something about the texture that I can’t stand. As much as I want to love that watermelon, feta, and mint salad that everyone makes this time of year, I can’t do it.
I do, however, love drinking watermelon.
Once it gets pureed, the texture is no longer an issue and it’s totally delicious and refreshing. Here, I combine fresh watermelon juice with lime, simple syrup, club soda, and loads of fresh mint to make a gorgeous sparkling pink mocktail.
It’s heavy on watermelon flavor, but still plenty tart and complex. And, since the watermelon is so naturally sweet, you can cut way down on the added sugar.
Combining fresh, juicy watermelon with the perfect balance of tangy lime and fizzy seltzer, this drink is a real crowd-pleaser. Make a pitcher and taste the magic for yourself!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Seedless Watermelon. The star of this beverage, providing natural sweetness and vibrant color. Choose a ripe, seedless watermelon with a uniform, symmetrical shape without any flat sides or dents.
Limes. For acidity and tanginess that makes this mocktail extra refreshing. Choose limes with smooth, shiny skin and a fresh scent.
Club Soda. To bring the fizz and complete the refreshing experience. You can also use seltzer – experiment with different flavors like lemon or lime to put your own spin on this drink.
Fresh Mint Leaves. A fun garnish that adds a touch of coolness and complexity. Choose fresh, vibrant green mint leaves free of blemishes.
Sugar. Adds a touch of sweetness to highlight the natural flavors of the watermelon and lime. You can also use honey, agave, or your favorite sugar substitute.
Salt. Just a pinch to elevate the flavors and create a more balanced taste.
You’ll also need a blender. A fine mesh sieve or strainer is also helpful for ensuring your watermelon juice is silky smooth.
How to make a refreshing watermelon lime mocktail
- Combine the water, sugar, and salt in a saucepan to make a simple syrup. Bring to a rapid simmer to dissolve the sugar. Once the sugar is dissolved, set aside to cool.
- Peel the watermelon and cut the flesh into cubes.
- Blend the watermelon until smooth. Strain, if desired for a smoother consistency.
- Mix in the lime juice, simple syrup, and club soda.
- Serve over ice with muddled mint.
Pro Tips
- When selecting a watermelon, choose one that feels heavy for it’s size and tap it gently. A ripe watermelon should produce a deep, hollow sound.
- For an elegant presentation, serve this watermelon mocktail in chilled glasses, garnished with additional mint sprigs or a small slice of watermelon.
- To make a more slushy version of this mocktail, freeze the watermelon chunks before blending, creating an icy, textured beverage perfect for hot days.
Commonly asked questions
Can I use a different sweetener?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use alternative sweeteners like stevia, honey, agave syrup, or maple syrup. Adjust the amount according to your desired level of sweetness.
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh limes?
Yes, but keep in mind that bottled lime juice tends to be more tart than fresh squeezed.
Can I make the watermelon mocktail ahead of time for a party?
t’s best to prepare the mocktail just before serving to maintain its freshness and carbonation.
However, you can pre-cut the watermelon, juice it, and keep it refrigerated in a sealed container until you’re ready to assemble the mocktails. Just add the lime, sugar, mint, ice, and seltzer when you’re ready to serve.
Can I add alcohol to the watermelon mocktail to make it a cocktail?
Sure! If you’d like to make it a cocktail, you can add a splash of vodka, rum, or tequila to the mocktail for an adult version. Adjust the amount according to your preference and drink responsibly.
Can I freeze the watermelon mocktail as popsicles?
Yes! The watermelon mocktail can be turned into refreshing popsicles by pouring the mixture into popsicle molds and freezing them. You’ll have delightful watermelon-lime popsicles to enjoy on a hot day.
More delicious summer drink recipes
- Honey-Sweetened Frozen Lemonade
- Creamy Mango Smoothies
- Grilled Pineapple Mojitos
- Low Carb Frozen Coffee (Frappuccino)
- Dairy Free Horchata
Sparkling Watermelon Mocktail
Equipment
Ingredients
- 3 cups water
- ¾ cups sugar
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 seedless watermelon
- 8 limes
- 4 cups club soda
- ¼ cup fresh mint
Instructions
- Combine the water, sugar, and salt in a saucepan to create a simple syrup. Bring to a rapid simmer to dissolve the sugar. Once the sugar is dissolved, set aside to cool.
- Peel the watermelon and cut the flesh into cubes (you should have about 2 cups.)
- Use a blender to puree the watermelon until smooth.
- Place a fine-mesh strainer over a bowl or pitcher and pour the watermelon puree through it to remove any seeds or pulp. Use a spoon to press the puree against the strainer and extract as much liquid as possible.
- Juice 6 of the limes and add to the watermelon juice.
- Slice the remaining limes into thin rounds and add to a pitcher. Add the mint and muddle to release the flavors.
- Pour in the watermelon juice and club soda. Stir gently to combine.
- Chill well and serve over ice. Garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh mint and a slice of watermelon, if desired.
This sounds perfectly refreshing! I love it!
How refreshing is this?! I’ve been looking for a different way to use watermelon lately and this looks perfect!
I am suuuuuper picky about my watermelon. It has to be perfectly ripe and sweet, or I have no interest in eating it. Drinking it sounds like a fabulous idea – and the color of your watermelon lemonade is lovely!
What a perfect compliment to a summer meal in the South when cold and refreshing are requisite! Although I might have to take Jane’s lead and throw in a bit of vodka. 🙂
Looks and sounds perfect Lauren and thanks so much for joining Progressive Eats. I look forward to seeing what everyone does each month!
I’ve never had a watermelon drink. It looks so cool and refreshing. Perfect for a warm Southern night.
Sounds so refreshing! Never thought to combine watermelon and lemonade!
What a perfect beverage for this Southern meal!!! So gorgeous, so refreshing! I think I’d rather drink my watermelon than eat it, too! Please pass me a tall glass of this deliciousness 🙂
This sounds so refreshing!
Lauren, you may not be from the South but you picked the absolute perfect drink to go with the dinner! I love watermelon and turning it into a mocktail sounds so good. I might be tempted to add a splash of vodka though, LOL! This is really beautiful and refreshing on the hot summer days we’ve been having. Thanks for a great recipe!
Easy way out or not, you nailed this! It’s like Summer in the South in a glass–lovely drink!