Here is an easy way to stay hydrated, and the kids will love it, too! Step-by-step instructions on how to make watermelon juice. Sponsored by the National Watermelon Promotion Board
I don’t know about you, but we consume massive quantities of watermelon during the summer months. I love that it is so kid-friendly and easy to share with friends. It is also packed with water, so it keeps us all hydrated while we are sweating it out in the heat.
August 3rd is National Drink Watermelon Day and I am going to share with you my family’s favorite way to beat the heat.
I have been using watermelon juice in cocktails (like my watermelon shooters with olive oil). My kids started getting upset because the pitcher of watermelon juice in the fridge was typically spike with vodka – oops!
Benefits of watermelon juice
Watermelon is 92% water, so the average watermelon can produce quite a pitcherful of juice. Eating a watermelon is a great way to hydrate during the long hot summer months. But the juice is equally refreshing and nutritious.
Watermelons are an excellent level of vitamin C (25%), vitamin A (30%) and vitamin B6 (6%). These vitamins boost eye health and the immune system. You will also find watermelons to be a great source of potassium, magnesium, thiamine, phosphorus and lycopene.
How to make watermelon juice without a juicer
You can use a juicer to make watermelon juice, but you can easily make it with a blender and fine mesh strainer. My husband prefers the juicer, I prefer the blender. Honestly, both juices produce taste great. In this post I share how to make watermelon juice in a blender.
First, cut your watermelon into 1-inch chunks. What you don’t have a cute watermelon cutting board? I have to say that this watermelon knife is super handy in slicing up watermelon FAST. The holes on the knife keep it from sticking to the melon while cutting it.
Stuff your watermelon chunks into a blender – and I mean STUFF IT. Don’t be shy. Shove those pieces way down. Because when you start blending, you want it to purée quickly. Add a little water if you have troubles.
Turn the blender on high and go, Go, GO!
Now, if you like it thick and your watermelon is seedless, you can slurp it up at this stage. But I like to strain out the seeds and pulp for a more juice-like consistency. This step is necessary for picky kids who don’t like the pulp.
Pass your purée through a fine mesh strainer and use a rubber spatula to press everything through. And what you have left is dreamy watermelon juice. A 10.5-pound seedless watermelon will produce about 3-quarts of juice.
I usually don’t serve my watermelon juice until it has been refrigerated for a few hours. I like it nice and cold. After you pour it in a pitcher, make sure you seal the top with a lid or plastic wrap. It should be cold after 3 hours in the refrigerator.
How long will watermelon juice last?
Whenever I make a pitcher, my kids drink it up within a couple of days. But I’ve had it last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. I did make sure that the pitcher was covered completely, either with a resealable top or with plastic wrap. Leaving it open to air means oxidation and exposing your watermelon juice to bacteria or contaminates.
More watermelon recipes!
If you’re a fan of drinking your watermelon, try my Watermelon Granita with Mint or my Watermelon Margarita!
The kids just love watermelons and watermelon juice. It really is the perfect way to stay hydrated this summer, especially on National Drink Watermelon Day and STAY HYDRATED! And here’s a great infographic showing you the benefits of eating or drinking your watermelon!
Disclosure: I was given a small stipend from the National Watermelon Promotion Board to buy the ingredients for my watermelon juice. If I didn’t like it, I wouldn’t blog about it. This post also contains Amazon affiliate links.
I love the facts that there is no added sugar!
Me, too!
How can I preserve watermelon juice for long shelf life in a glass bottle .
It should last about a week in the refrigerator in a sealed bottle. Unfortunately it is a perishable item and won’t last longer than that.
really good for a summer party with a shot of vodka!!!
Thanks for sharing, this was very tasty
So glad you liked it! You are very welcome.
I have a juicer can I do this in it?
From what I read online, yes, you can use a juicer to juice a watermelon.
Hi Laura,
I am in total agreement, watermelon juice is fantastic and so refreshing!
May i add that it’s also fantastic to add cucumber and mint when juicing. Will give the juice an even more refreshing after taste. Perfect for summer 🙂
Since I’m half-Persian, cucumber and mint is a combination we love! Great idea, Joana!
Looks fabulous.. I am already feeling thirsty.. Can I have a glass too please??
Sorry, my kids drank it all up! Enjoy!
watermelon is definitely my favourite juice flavour EVER. so craving a glass right now!
I’m always guilty of not drinking enough water but nobody could call me guilty for not eating enough watermelon. I love it! In chunks or in the glass. 🙂
Watermelon juice is COOL! Your knife is cool too. 🙂