Watermelon Lemonade

With watermelon popping up everywhere I go, it was only fair I did something with it. Ice tea or watermelon lemonade is where I turn to in those hot Summer days. 

With few ingredients you will have a refreshing drink the whole family can enjoy or you can easily turn this innocent drink into your signature cocktail for a Summer party or BBQ by adding vodka or the alcohol of your choice. Have some leftover watermelon lemonade? No problem, make popsicles! As you see, this recipe is very versatile and that's why I love it. 

One quick tip, when ready to serve, don't add ice into the pitcher (unless you know it will all be consumed right away) Add the ice, and lots of it, directly to the serving glasses. This will prevent the lemonade from diluting from the melted ice.  

Ingredients:

(makes 8 to 10 servings)

1- 5 lb. watermelon, cut into pieces

1/2 cup lemon juice +

the zest of 1 lemon

1 1/2 cup water

1/4 cup sugar 

Puree the watermelon (in batches) in a food processor. Strain it and discard the pulp. Add lemon juice, zest, sugar and water. Taste and adjust sugar if needed. Stir well before serving. Serve over ice and garnish with a piece of watermelon.