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Refreshing Watermelon Basil Lemonade Recipe with Mint Simple Syrup

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A refreshing summer drink combining juicy watermelon, fresh basil, and a mint simple syrup for a cool, herbal twist. Perfect for hot days and easy to make with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (about 600 grams) cubed seedless watermelon
  • 10–12 fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
  • 1 cup fresh mint leaves (for simple syrup)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar (for mint simple syrup)
  • 3 cups (720 ml) cold water, divided
  • Ice cubes, as needed
  • Pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Mint Simple Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup (240 ml) water and 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat, add 1 cup fresh mint leaves, and let steep for 15 minutes. Strain out the leaves and chill the syrup.
  2. Prepare Watermelon & Basil Puree: While the syrup steeps, place 4 cups cubed watermelon and 10-12 basil leaves in a blender. Pulse until smooth but not watery, about 30 seconds.
  3. Strain the Puree (Optional): For a smoother lemonade, pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl, pressing with a spoon to extract as much juice as possible. Skip this step if you prefer a rustic texture.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large pitcher, mix the strained watermelon-basil juice (or unstrained if you skipped straining), 1 cup (240 ml) fresh lemon juice, 1.5 cups (360 ml) cold water, and the chilled mint simple syrup. Stir well to combine. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness by adding more syrup or lemon juice if needed. Add a pinch of salt if desired.
  5. Chill & Serve: Add plenty of ice cubes to the pitcher or pour over glasses filled with ice. Garnish with extra basil leaves or lemon slices if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor.

Notes

Do not over-steep the mint to avoid bitterness; 15 minutes is ideal. Straining the puree is optional depending on texture preference. Adjust sweetness based on watermelon sweetness. Fresh lemon juice is recommended for best flavor. The syrup can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for up to 1 week. Serve chilled with ice. Leftover pulp can be used in smoothies or fruit salads. For a bubbly twist, add sparkling water before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: watermelon lemonade, basil lemonade, mint simple syrup, summer drink, refreshing beverage, herbal lemonade, easy summer recipe

Find it online: https://realityeats.com/refreshing-watermelon-basil-lemonade-recipe-with-mint-simple-syrup-easy-and-perfect-for-summer/