But, just in time for July 4th festivities, I bring you a drink that is perfect for your backyard bbq. Lemonade is the ubiquitous Summer beverage and what fruit screams 'Summer!' more than watermelon? Now how about we mix the two together?
I'm about to make a new batch of watermelon lemonade today. I predict it won't be the last for the season and I'd bet that it won't be yours either.
First off...I highly recommend making simple syrup and keeping it in your fridge. Who likes granules of sugar in their lemonade if not mixed thoroughly? I don't. Simple syrup sweetens perfectly and it comes in handy for adult beverages too. Win win for all.
Watermelon Lemonade
Makes just shy of a quart
1 cup lemon juice
1/2 cup simple syrup (less or more to taste)
1 1/3 cups watermelon juice
1/2 cup water
In a blender, add roughly 4 cups of watermelon, cubed, and 1/2 cup water. Puree watermelon. Set up a sieve over a mixing bowl to strain the pulp from the juice. Combine the lemon juice, watermelon juice, water, and simple syrup together in a pitcher or bottle. Mix thoroughly. Feel free to adjust ingredients as you see fit. I personally love a tart lemonade, so my amount of simple syrup may still bring a big pucker to your lips.
For the simple syrup: Equal ratios of water to sugar. One cup of sugar to one cup of water over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Be sure to stir. Once dissolved, allow to cool before use. Will keep in fridge for at least a couple of weeks.
