Melonade
A refreshing, sweet and tangy watermelon lemonade with a hint of orange and lemon, perfect for summer gatherings and those who love fruity, chilled beverages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar and water in a saucepan; cook, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves.
- Cool the sugar-water mixture.
- Place half of the watermelon cubes in an electric blender and puree until smooth.
- Transfer the pureed watermelon to a large bowl.
- Repeat with the remaining watermelon cubes and add to the bowl.
- Add orange juice, lemon juice, and the cooled sugar-water mixture; stir well.
- Just before serving, stir in 7-Up.
- Garnish with lime slices, small whole strawberries, or orange slices.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding fresh mint leaves when blending the watermelon. If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the sugar to taste or substitute with a natural sweetener like agave syrup. For a twist, try adding a splash of coconut water or using lime juice instead of lemon. Ensure your watermelon is ripe for optimal sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve melonade in tall glasses over ice, garnished with lime slices or strawberries for a vibrant touch. This refreshing drink pairs beautifully with light summer dishes, such as grilled chicken or salads. It's also great on its own as a midday refresher or at picnics. For a fun twist, consider pairing it with American recipes like Fruit Loop Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover melonade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy it chilled, pour into glasses with ice just before serving. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture once thawed. If you want to serve it cold quickly, use frozen fruit cubes instead of ice.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Melonade contains roughly 70 calories, with 1g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits to make melonade?
Absolutely! While watermelon is the star, you can blend in other fruits like cantaloupe or honeydew for added flavor. Just maintain the overall balance of liquids to ensure a refreshing consistency. Experimenting with different fruit combinations can yield delicious results!
Is it possible to make melonade in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day ahead. However, add the carbonated element, like 7-Up, right before serving to maintain its fizz. Store the blended fruit and juices in the refrigerator, and simply mix in the soda when ready to serve for optimal freshness.
Can I make a non-sweet version of melonade?
Certainly! Simply reduce the sugar or skip it altogether if you're looking for a more natural taste. You can also increase the lemon or lime juice for tartness. For a refreshing, less sweet drink, try using sparkling water instead of soda for a bubbly finish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).