Description
Nothing beats the refreshing taste of a homemade hydrating fruit punch, especially when it’s loaded with some of the most thirst-quenching fruits like watermelon, red apples, strawberries, and a zesty hint of lemon. This hydrating fruit punch not only cools you down but also delivers a healthy dose of vitamins and hydration, making it perfect for summer parties, picnics, or just a treat after a long day. Best of all, this recipe is simple, customizable, and free of processed sugars or additives!
Ingredients
- 2 cups watermelon cubes (about ½ small watermelon, seeds removed)
- 1 red apple, cored and diced
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 4 cups cold water
- Ice cubes (optional, as needed for serving)
- Fresh mint leaves (optional for garnish)
- Honey or agave syrup (optional for sweetness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
Begin by prepping your fruits. Remove the rind from the watermelon and cut it into small cubes, ensuring the seeds are removed. Next, core the red apple and dice it into bite-sized pieces. Hull the strawberries and cut them in half.
Step 2: Juice the Lemon
Roll the lemon on a hard surface to release the juices, then cut it in half and juice it into a small bowl. If you prefer a more citrusy punch, you can add an extra half lemon.
Step 3: Blend the Fruits
In a blender, combine the watermelon cubes, diced apple, and strawberries. Pour in the lemon juice and 2 cups of cold water. Blend the mixture until smooth. This creates the base for your fruit punch, packed with vitamins and refreshing flavors.
Step 4: Strain the Mixture (Optional)
If you prefer a smoother drink, you can strain the fruit mixture using a fine-mesh sieve to remove the pulp. This step is optional, depending on whether you like a thicker, more fiber-rich punch or a smoother, lighter version.
Step 5: Add More Water and Mix
Pour the blended fruit mixture into a large pitcher. Add the remaining 2 cups of cold water, and stir well. Taste the punch and adjust the sweetness by adding honey or agave syrup if desired.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the fruit punch for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. When ready to serve, pour the punch over ice cubes for an extra refreshing touch. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a beautiful presentation and added fragrance
Notes
Cooking Notes:
- Sweetness: Depending on the sweetness of your fruits, you may or may not need to add honey or agave. Watermelon and strawberries are naturally sweet, so taste the punch first before adding any extra sweetener.
- Fruit Variations: Feel free to swap or add other fruits like pineapple, oranges, or blueberries. This recipe is highly adaptable to whatever fresh fruits you have on hand.
- Make it Fizzy: For a bubbly version, substitute half of the cold water with sparkling water or club soda.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your hydrating fruit punch in clear glasses over ice to showcase the vibrant colors of the fruit. Garnish with a slice of lemon on the rim of the glass and a sprig of mint for an added touch of elegance. This punch pairs beautifully with light summer snacks like cucumber sandwiches, fruit skewers, or grilled vegetables.
Tips:
- Ice Cold: For the best experience, make sure all ingredients are cold before blending. You can even freeze the watermelon cubes beforehand to ensure the drink is icy cold.
- Batch Prep: This fruit punch can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to stir well before serving.
- Add Alcohol (Optional): If you’re making this for an adult gathering, consider spiking the punch with light rum or vodka for a refreshing cocktail.
- Fruit Popsicles: Turn leftover punch into popsicles by freezing it in molds for a delicious frozen treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (Chilling: 30 minutes)
Nutrition
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 3mg
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g