Recipe: Summer Watermelon Refresher
Beyond its refreshing taste, did you know that watermelon can support heart health? Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants such as calcium, vitamin C, magnesium, vitamin A, potassium, and lycopene, watermelon offers a variety of nutrients. These antioxidants play a crucial role in combating harmful molecules called free radicals, which, if left unchecked, can trigger inflammation responses detrimental to heart health. For further information, explore the American Heart Association’s 2023 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
- Mint, optional for garnish
- Lemon slices, optional for garnish
Directions
- Prep the watermelon by removing rind, then cut the watermelon into smaller pieces to make it easier to blend
- Add watermelon to blender with water and blend
- Strain the watermelon juice into a pitcher if preferred to remove the pulp
- In the pitcher, add lemon juice, agave, and mix
- Refrigerate for 1-2 hours, or add ice and enjoy!
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