About the Recipe
Who says you need alcohol to enjoy a sensational margarita? This refreshing watermelon mocktail is bursting with fresh flavours and packed with nutrients that your body will absolutely love. It's the perfect way to stay hydrated while treating yourself to something special, and honestly, it tastes like summer in a glass!
Whether you're hosting friends, enjoying a quiet evening, or looking for a fun way to boost your water intake, this mocktail ticks all the boxes for delicious, guilt-free refreshment.
Nutritional Benefits
This isn't just a tasty drink, it's actually doing wonderful things for your body! Let's have a look at what makes this mocktail so good for you.
Watermelon: Your Hydration Hero
Watermelon is about 92% water, making it one of nature's best hydrators (1). It's also rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that gives watermelon its gorgeous pink colour and has been linked to heart health and reduced inflammation (2). Plus, it contains citrulline, an amino acid that may help improve blood flow and reduce muscle soreness after exercise (3).
Orange Juice: Vitamin C Powerhouse
Fresh orange juice is absolutely loaded with vitamin C, which supports your immune system, helps your body absorb iron, and promotes healthy skin by supporting collagen production (4). It's also rich in folate and potassium, essential nutrients for overall health and wellbeing (5).
Lemon Juice: Zesty Goodness
Lemons are another fantastic source of vitamin C and contain plant compounds called flavonoids that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties (6). The citric acid in lemons may also help prevent kidney stones by increasing urine volume and pH (7).
Mint: More Than Just Fresh Breath
Mint has been used for centuries for its digestive benefits and can help soothe an upset stomach (8). It also contains menthol, which has a cooling effect and may help with relaxation (9). Plus, it just makes everything taste amazing!
Sparkling Water: Bubbles Without the Guilt
Sparkling water helps you stay hydrated just as well as still water, but the bubbles can make it feel more special and satisfying (10). Some people find it helps them drink more water throughout the day, which is always a win for your health!
Ingredients
2 cups fresh watermelon, cubed and chilled
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
4-6 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, depending on how tart you like your Margs
6-8 fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish (optional)
Ice cubes or crushed ice
Optional: lime wedges and coarse salt for rim
Optional: 1-2 teaspoons honey or agave if you prefer it sweeter
Preparation
If you'd like a salted rim, run a lime wedge around the rim of your
glasses and dip into coarse salt. Set aside.
Add the watermelon cubes to a blender and blend until completely smooth.
Strain the watermelon juice through a fine mesh sieve to remove any pulp (optional, but it gives a smoother texture).
In the blender, combine the watermelon juice, orange juice, lemon juice, and mint leaves (if using). Blend for about 30 seconds until the mint is well incorporated. Taste, and add more lemon if wanted.
Fill your glasses with ice cubes.
Pour the mocktail mixture through a sieve again, over the ice, filling each glass about 3/4 full.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a watermelon or lime wedge.
Top Tips:
Make it ahead: Prepare the watermelon and citrus juice blend ahead of time and store it in the fridge.
Freeze your watermelon: For an extra cold, slushy version, use frozen watermelon cubes instead of fresh. It creates the most amazing texture!
Adjust to taste: Everyone's palate is different. Feel free to add a touch more lemon for tartness or a drizzle of honey if you prefer yours a bit sweeter.