Sweet and Tangy Watermelon Lemonade

Step 1

Trim and cut 2 1/2 pounds seedless watermelon or 1 1/4 pounds cut watermelon into 1-inch cubes until you have 4 cups. Place in a blender. Juice 5 to 6 large lemons until you have 1 cup juice. Add the juice and 2/3 cup granulated sugar to the blender.

Step 2

Blend until smooth and the sugar is dissolved, about 30 seconds.

Step 3

Fit a fine-mesh strainer over a pitcher or large glass measuring cup. Pour the blended watermelon (about 3 cups) through the strainer and press on the watermelon solids with a ladle to force more juice through. Discard the contents of the strainer.

Step 4

If necessary, transfer to a pitcher. Pour in 3 cups cold water and stir to combine.

Step 5

Chill until ready to serve, about 3 hours. Taste the watermelon lemonade; if it’s too intense, add more cold water 1/4 cup at a time as needed. Stir together. Serve over ice and garnish with watermelon wedges, lemon slices, or fresh mint leaves.