Watermelon is the quintessential taste of summer. But there is a better way to enjoy it than awkwardly eating around the rind at a barbecue.
Watermelon juice is one of the most hydrating, nutrient-dense, and easy-to-make beverages you can prepare at home.
What is Watermelon Juice?
At its core, watermelon juice is simply the liquid extracted from the flesh of a watermelon.
Unlike orange or apple juice, which often require heavy-duty machinery, watermelon is 92% water, making it incredibly easy to liquefy using a standard blender.
Agua fresca
Historically, watermelon juice is a staple in many warm climates. In Mexico, it is a popular agua fresca (fresh water), often served over ice with a splash of lime.
In Southeast Asia, it is commonly blended into “shakes” or “smoothies” where the pulp is retained for a slushier texture.
Why Make It at Home? (Cost Comparison)
You might see cold-pressed watermelon juice at high-end grocery stores or juice bars, but the markup is significant. Making it at home is not just fresher, it is a fraction of the price.
Cost Comparison: Homemade vs. Store-Bought
| Product Type | Average Price (USD) | Serving Size | Price Per 8 oz |
| High-End Juice Bar | $9.00 – $12.00 | 12 oz | ~$7.00 |
| Bottled Cold-Pressed | $4.50 – $6.00 | 12 oz | ~$3.50 |
| Homemade | $6.00 (Whole Melon) | Yields ~100 oz | ~$0.48 |
Note: Prices are estimates based on national averages for non-organic produce and standard juice bar pricing.
Watermelon Juice Nutrition: What’s in Your Glass?
Watermelon is often dismissed as just “sugar water,” but it is actually a nutritional powerhouse.
It is packed with lycopene (an antioxidant linked to heart health and sun protection) and L-citrulline (an amino acid that may help reduce muscle soreness).
Here is the nutritional breakdown for a standard glass of raw, homemade watermelon juice.
Nutrition Facts per 8 oz (240 ml) Serving
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 70 – 80 kcal |
| Total Fat | 0.4 g |
| Protein | 1.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Sugars (Natural) | 15 g |
| Fiber (Strained) | < 0.5 g |
| Fiber (Unstrained) | ~1.0 g |
| Vitamin C | 30% DV |
| Vitamin A | 25% DV |
| Caffeine | 0 mg |
Note: Watermelon juice is naturally caffeine-free.
How to Make Watermelon Juice (3 Ways)
You don’t need a fancy juicer to make this drink. Here are the three most popular methods to suit your texture preference.
1. The Purist (Strained)
Best for: Cocktails, mocktails, and a crisp water-like texture.
- Scoop cubed, seedless watermelon into a blender.
- Blend on high for 30 seconds until fully liquefied.
- Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher. Use a spoon to press the pulp against the mesh to extract every drop.
- Discard the dry pulp (or compost it).
2. The Smoothie Style (Unstrained)
Best for: Maximum nutrition and fiber.
- Scoop cubed watermelon into a blender.
- Add a splash of water or coconut water to help it circulate.
- Blend on high for 45-60 seconds until frothy.
- Serve immediately over ice. (Note: This will separate if left sitting, so stir before drinking).
3. The Slushie (Frozen)
Best for: Extremely hot days.
- Freeze watermelon cubes overnight.
- Blend the frozen cubes with a squeeze of lime juice and a splash of water.
- Serve with a spoon.
Flavor Variations and Pairings
Watermelon is sweet and subtle, making it a perfect canvas for herbs, spices, and other fruits. Use this table to build your perfect cup.
| Flavor Profile | Add-in Ingredients | Why it works |
| The Classic | Lime juice + Pinch of Salt | Salt enhances sweetness; lime cuts the sugar. |
| The Refresher | Fresh Mint + Cucumber | Mint adds cooling aromatics perfect for heat. |
| The Spicy Kick | Jalapeño slice + Tajín rim | The heat contrasts beautifully with the cool melon. |
| The Zinger | Fresh Ginger juice | Adds a spicy warmth that aids digestion. |
| The Creamy | Coconut Milk | Creates a “peaches and cream” vibe, great for dessert. |
Important Safety Tips: Raw Juice & Storage
Because homemade watermelon juice is raw and unpasteurized, it carries a higher risk for bacterial growth than shelf-stable store-bought juices.
Shelf Life
Homemade juice is best consumed immediately. It can be stored in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Separation
It is normal for fresh juice to separate into a clear liquid and a red sediment layer. Simply shake or stir before serving.
Food Safety
According to the FDA, children, elderly adults, and those with compromised immune systems should be cautious with unpasteurized juices.
To reduce risk, ensure you wash the outside of the melon thoroughly under running water with a produce brush before cutting into it. This prevents bacteria on the rind from transferring to the flesh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze watermelon juice?
Yes! You can pour the juice into ice cube trays. These watermelon ice cubes are fantastic in lemonade, sparkling water, or even rosé wine to keep drinks cold without diluting them.
Why does my watermelon juice taste mealy?
This usually happens if you blend the seeds (even the white ones in “seedless” melons) or if the watermelon was over-ripe and mushy to begin with. Straining the juice through a cheesecloth or fine sieve will fix the texture.
Is watermelon juice high in sugar?
Watermelon juice contains natural fruit sugars (fructose). While it is a healthier alternative to soda because it contains vitamins and antioxidants, it can still spike blood sugar. Pairing it with a meal containing protein or fiber can help mitigate this.
How do I pick a sweet watermelon?
Look for a melon that feels heavy for its size (indicating high water content) and has a creamy yellow “field spot” on one side. If the spot is white or green, it may not be ripe yet.
Final Thoughts: Which Style is Right for You?
Watermelon juice is one of the most versatile summer beverages, but the “best” way to make it depends on your needs:
- For pure hydration: Go with the Classic Strained recipe with a pinch of salt to replenish electrolytes.
- For gut health: Choose the Unstrained/Smoothie version to keep the fiber intact.
- For a party: Try the Sparkling Mocktail route by mixing the juice 50/50 with sparkling water and adding a sprig of mint.
No matter how you blend it, making this juice at home saves you money and guarantees you are sipping on 100% real fruit with no hidden additives.
Naeem is a passionate drink enthusiast and recipe curator behind DrinkWhisper.com. With 10 years of exploring cafes, bars, and home mixology trends, he shares inspiring drinks, creative cocktails, and refreshing non alcoholic recipes for every occasion.
