Watermelon Smoothie is a creamy and velvety smoothie, prepared without added sugars with only frozen fruit and fresh milk. It is a summer drink that, like all smoothies, can be made in many different ways, perhaps replacing the milk with Greek yogurt or adding a sweetener of your choice, such as honey, erythritol or cane sugar.
We opted for an ultra light version, perfect even for those who are watching their figure: after cutting the watermelon pulp into cubes we transferred it to the freezer, covered with cling film, for about 2 hours; in this way the final result will be dense and frothy without the need for further preparations. Once ready, all you have to do is pour the smoothie into individual glasses, garnish it with a slice of watermelon and a sprig of mint, and then sip it for breakfast or as a snack for a light and thirst-quenching break.
The history of watermelon smoothies ties closely to the global appreciation for watermelon as a hydrating and refreshing fruit, especially in tropical and Mediterranean climates. In countries like India, Mexico, and across Southeast Asia, watermelon has been blended with local ingredients like mint, lime, and sugar for centuries to create cooling beverages during the hot seasons. These early forms of smoothies were often made without dairy, relying instead on the fruit’s natural juices and sometimes mixed with spices or herbs, giving rise to regional variations of watermelon-based drinks that were both nutritious and deeply refreshing.
In the United States, the popularity of watermelon smoothies began to rise alongside the health food movement of the late 20th century. As blenders became household staples and Americans grew more health-conscious, fruit smoothies gained traction for their convenience and nutritional value. Watermelon, with its high water content, natural sweetness, and rich lycopene content, became a favored base for summer smoothies. Often paired with other fruits like strawberries or citrus, or enhanced with yogurt, mint, or honey, watermelon smoothies evolved into a staple of American summer menus—from beachside cafes to fitness-focused juice bars.
Fruits that pair beautifully with watermelon in a smoothie include strawberries, blueberries, pineapple, mango, and citrus fruits like oranges or lemons. These fruits enhance the watermelon’s sweetness while adding tang, tropical flavors, or a hint of acidity that balances the overall taste.
Yes, you can use frozen fruits in your watermelon smoothie. Frozen fruits, like strawberries, mangoes, or pineapple, will help thicken the smoothie and make it colder without the need for ice, while still retaining their flavor and nutrients. Just make sure to adjust the liquid ratio as frozen fruits might make the smoothie thicker.
Watermelon smoothies are best served chilled in tall glasses. For an extra touch, garnish with a few fresh mint leaves, a slice of lime, or even small watermelon cubes on the rim. You can also serve it in a mason jar or a fun, decorative glass to add a festive feel for summer gatherings or brunches.
Yes, you can make a watermelon smoothie ahead of time. To preserve its freshness, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1–2 hours. If you want to prepare it further in advance, consider freezing the smoothie in ice cube trays or a sealed container. When ready to serve, blend the frozen smoothie for a quick, refreshing treat.
Yes, watermelon smoothies can freeze well. To do so, pour the smoothie into an airtight container or ice cube trays and freeze. Once frozen, you can blend the cubes back into a smoothie when you're ready to enjoy it. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but it will still taste refreshing.
To store leftover watermelon smoothie, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 1–2 days. If the smoothie separates, simply give it a good stir before serving.
Cut the watermelon into slices, peel it and remove the seeds, then cut the pulp into cubes: keep a couple of slices aside for finishing.
Cut the watermelon into slices, peel it and remove the seeds, then cut the pulp into cubes: keep a couple of slices aside for finishing.
Collect the diced fruit in a bowl, cover with cling film and leave to rest in the freezer for about a couple of hours.
Collect the diced fruit in a bowl, cover with cling film and leave to rest in the freezer for about a couple of hours.
Once the time has passed, transfer the frozen watermelon into the blender jug and pour in the milk.
Once the time has passed, transfer the frozen watermelon into the blender jug and pour in the milk.
Blend everything well for about 30 seconds, or until you obtain a creamy and smooth mixture.
Blend everything well for about 30 seconds, or until you obtain a creamy and smooth mixture.
Immediately pour the watermelon smoothie into individual glasses, decorate with the watermelon slices kept aside and a sprig of fresh mint, bring to the table and serve with a straw. Enjoy!
Immediately pour the watermelon smoothie into individual glasses, decorate with the watermelon slices kept aside and a sprig of fresh mint, bring to the table and serve with a straw. Enjoy!