WATERMELON BASIL REFRESHER
The watermelon basil refresher is a naturally hydrating and invigorating drink that combines the sweetness of watermelon, the herbaceous notes of fresh basil and the bright acidity of lime. This refreshing beverage is perfect for warm days, offering a cooling effect that helps keep the body hydrated while delivering a burst of fresh, natural flavour. Watermelon is rich in water content, making it an excellent fruit for replenishing fluids, while lime adds a zesty contrast that enhances the drink’s light and crisp taste. Basil provides a subtle aromatic touch, giving this refresher a sophisticated and herbal complexity. Whether you need a thirst-quenching drink for a summer picnic, a post-workout hydration boost or a naturally sweetened alternative to sugary beverages, this watermelon basil tonic is an easy, delicious and nourishing choice.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Drinks, Refreshments, Hydration Boost, Non-Alcoholic Beverages
SERVING SIZE
1 serving
CUISINE
Mediterranean, American, Southeast Asian
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
No-Cook, Quick & Easy, Infused Drinks
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Summer, Post-Workout, Everyday Refreshment, Picnic, Outdoor Gathering, Poolside Drink
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Alcohol-Free, Vegan, Vegetarian, Low Sugar, Quick & Easy, Hydrating, Electrolyte Drink
DISH TYPE
Beverage, Infused Water, Hydration Tonic
INGREDIENTS
The following are the ingredients we need to prepare this watermelon basil refresher.
- 100g watermelon, blended
- 5 fresh basil leaves
- ½ lime, juiced
- 150ml water
- Ice cubes
- Watermelon slice (optional) for garnish
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 35 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fibre: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 2mg
- Potassium: 7% DV
- Vitamin C: 30% DV
- Magnesium: 4% DV
PREPARATION
- Blend The Watermelon: Add the watermelon chunks to a blender and blend until smooth. Strain if desired for a smoother texture.
- Juice The Lime: Squeeze the juice from ½ a lime and add it to the blended watermelon.
- Muddle The Basil Leaves: Lightly crush the basil leaves using a spoon or muddler to release their natural oils, then add them to a glass.
- Pour And Mix: Add the watermelon-lime mixture and water to the glass, stirring gently to combine the flavours.
- Add Ice Cubes: Fill the glass with ice to keep the drink cool and refreshing.
- Garnish And Serve: Decorate with a watermelon slice or extra basil leaves and enjoy immediately.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
None
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for you when making this watermelon basil refresher.
- Use Ripe Watermelon: The sweeter the watermelon, the better the drink tastes, so select a fully ripe fruit for maximum flavour.
- Chill Ingredients Beforehand: Refrigerate the watermelon and water before blending to serve the drink extra cold without needing too much ice.
- Adjust Sweetness Naturally: If the watermelon isn’t sweet enough, add a small drizzle of honey or agave syrup.
- Let It Infuse: For a more intense basil flavour, let the drink sit for 10–15 minutes before drinking.
- Use Fresh Lime: Freshly squeezed lime juice enhances the taste better than bottled versions.
- For A Smoother Texture: Strain the blended watermelon juice to remove pulp if you prefer a silkier consistency.
VARIATIONS
- Sparkling Version: Swap still water for sparkling water to create a fizzy, bubbly refresher.
- Berry Infusion: Add a handful of blended strawberries or raspberries for extra fruitiness.
- Mint Alternative: Replace basil with fresh mint for a classic watermelon-mint flavour.
- Coconut Hydration: Use coconut water instead of regular water for extra electrolytes and a tropical twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of fresh ginger for a spicy, metabolism-boosting variation.
- Frozen Slushie: Blend with extra ice cubes to turn this into a slushy-style drink perfect for hot days.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 6 hours.
- Freezing: Make watermelon-lime ice cubes by freezing the blended juice in an ice tray for future use.
- Batch Preparation: Prepare a larger quantity in a pitcher and refrigerate, adding basil and ice just before serving.
- On-The-Go: Store in a sealed bottle and shake before drinking to redistribute flavours.