Minty Watermelon Sparkle – Refreshing Iced Summer Drink with Mint & Lemon

Light, crisp, and picture-perfect. The minty watermelon sparkle blends sweet, juicy watermelon with zesty lemon and fresh mint, then tops it with bubbly sparkling water for instant chill. Serve over ice and sip your way through summer.

Quick Answer — Minty Watermelon Sparkle: Blend chilled watermelon with lemon and optional sweetener, strain, pour over muddled mint and ice, then top with sparkling water. Ready in about 10 minutes.

Table of Contents

At a Glance

  • Servings: 2 tall glasses
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Calories per serving: ~70 kcal
  • Skill level: Easy
  • Equipment: Blender, fine strainer (optional), muddler, tall glasses

Ingredients

Base

  • 3 cups (450 g) seedless watermelon, chilled and cubed
  • 2 tbsp (30 ml) fresh lemon juice (or lime)
  • 1–2 tbsp (15–30 ml) honey or agave, to taste (optional)

For Serving

  • 8–10 fresh mint leaves
  • 1 cup (240 ml) cold sparkling water
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon slices and extra mint for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Blend base: Combine watermelon, lemon juice, and sweetener (if using). Blend until smooth.
  2. Strain (optional): For a silky sip, strain through a fine mesh into a jug.
  3. Muddle mint: Lightly muddle 3–4 mint leaves in each glass to release aroma.
  4. Assemble: Fill glasses with ice; pour base to about 2/3 full.
  5. Sparkle & serve: Top with sparkling water, stir gently, garnish with lemon and mint, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips & Variations

  • No dilution: Use frozen watermelon cubes instead of some ice.
  • Zingy kick: Blend in 1 tsp freshly grated ginger.
  • Tropical twist: Swap half the sparkling water for coconut water.
  • Party pitcher: Scale x4; add sparkling water just before pouring.
  • Sugar-free: Skip sweetener if watermelon is peak-ripe.

Make-Ahead & Storage

  • Prepare the base up to 8 hours ahead; keep refrigerated.
  • Add mint, ice, and sparkling water right before serving.
  • Best fresh—carbonation fades quickly.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

  • Great with grilled shrimp, summer salads, or light appetizers.
  • Serve in clear tall glasses with colorful straws for a photogenic look.

Troubleshooting

  • Too sweet? Add more lemon or extra sparkling water.
  • Too tart? Stir in 1–2 tsp honey/agave.
  • Too flat? Use freshly opened sparkling water and chill all components.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 70 kcal
Protein 1 g
Carbohydrates 18 g
Total Fat 0 g
Fiber 1 g
Sugars 15 g
Vitamin C ~35% DV
Potassium ~8% DV

FAQ

Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh is best for bright flavor, but bottled works if needed.

Can I make it without sweetener?
Yes. Ripe watermelon is naturally sweet—adjust with more lemon or sparkling water.

How do I keep it super cold for parties?
Chill the base and glasses, use frozen watermelon cubes, and add sparkling water at the last minute.

Crisp, colorful, and wonderfully hydrating, the minty watermelon sparkle is summer in a glass. Mix a batch, clink glasses, and enjoy the bubbles.