Watermelon Lemonade Fresh Drink (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 6 cups seedless watermelon, cut into 1–2 inch cubes
02 - 1 cup fresh lemon juice (from approximately 4 large lemons)
03 - 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 1 large lime)
04 - 1/2 cup water, more as needed to adjust consistency
05 - 1/3 to 1/2 cup granulated sugar, to taste
06 - 2 tablespoons agave nectar or honey, optional for added sweetness
07 - Fresh mint leaves, watermelon slices, lemon or lime slices for garnish (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Slice seedless watermelon into 1–2 inch cubes to yield 6 cups. Use ripe watermelon for optimal sweetness.
02 - Place watermelon cubes, 1/2 cup water, and granulated sugar in a blender. Blend on high until completely smooth.
03 - Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large pitcher, pressing with a spoon to extract maximum juice and remove pulp.
04 - Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon and lime juice until fully integrated.
05 - Taste the lemonade and adjust sweetness as desired. Add agave nectar or honey if a natural sweetener is preferred, stirring until dissolved.
06 - Refrigerate the lemonade for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and ensure it is well chilled before serving.
07 - Pour lemonade over ice into glasses. Garnish with fresh mint, watermelon slices, or lemon and lime wheels as desired.

# Notes:

01 - Always use ripe, seedless watermelon for the sweetest flavor and smoothest texture. Adjust sugar based on personal sweetness preference and watermelon ripeness.
02 - For an adult variation, mix in 1/2 cup vodka or light rum before chilling. Non-alcoholic lemonade is ideal for children and gatherings.
03 - Blending other fresh fruit or creating watermelon lemonade popsicles makes this drink especially festive for summer occasions.