Recipe: Summer Watermelon Refresher
Beyond its refreshing taste, did you know that watermelon can support heart health? Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including calcium, vitamin C, magnesium, vitamin A, potassium, and lycopene, watermelon offers a diverse range of nutrients. Watermelon also contains antioxidants, which are certain nutrients that play a crucial role in combating harmful molecules called free radicals. If left unchecked, these free radicals can trigger inflammatory responses detrimental to heart health.
For further information (and additional recipes) explore the American Heart Association’s article on watermelon!
Summer Watermelon Refresher
Serves 3
Ingredients
- 6 cups of fresh watermelon (about one blender full)
- 1/4 C water
- 1 tsp agave syrup
- Juice of half a lemon or lime
- Mint, optional for garnish
- Lemon/lime slices, optional for garnish
Directions
- Prep the watermelon by washing it well and removing the rind.
- Cut the watermelon into smaller pieces to make it easier to blend.
- Add watermelon to the blender with water and blend.
- Strain the watermelon juice into a pitcher if preferred to remove the pulp.
- To the pitcher, add agave and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
- Refrigerate for 1-2 hours to chill, or add ice and enjoy immediately!
Tip: double or triple the recipe to make a batch for the whole family!
Swaps
- For the agave: honey or maple syrup
- For the lemon: lime
