| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 170 | 0.2g | 0g | 44g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 40g | 1.6g | 1.4g | 0.03g |
For me, one of the greatest joys of living on the West Coast is the bountiful access to fresh fruits pretty much all year round. That’s probably why I’ve fallen head over heels for a drink as simple, and yet as flavorful as Honeydew Lemonade. It’s sunshine in a glass, and perfectly encapsulates the health-conscious, light flavors I tend to gravitate towards in my recipes.
A Healthful Twist to a Classic
Honeydew Lemonade takes a classic lemonade and infuses it with the delightful essence of fresh honeydew melon. A fusion of tart and sweet that’s simply uplifting. But it’s not just the flavor that wins, it’s also packed with a pretty impressive health resume. Honeydew melon is a fantastic source of vitamin C and potassium, while lemon juice provides an additional vitamin C punch. On top of that, honey — a natural sweetener used in the recipe — is known for its antioxidant properties. Simply put, every sip of Honeydew Lemonade is an investment in wellbeing, and that’s something I cherish as much as the incredible flavor.
Pairs Like a Dream
When it comes to finding partners for our beloved Honeydew Lemonade, the dish options are rather extensive. This refreshing beverage is similar to a traditional Classic Lemonade or a Reece Lemonade, but the addition of honeydew takes it to another level. Serving it alongside classics such as avocado toasts or a fresh salad enhances the unveiling of flavors, while the tangy sweetness of the drink balances heavier entrees like barbecued ribs or a juicy burger. And of course, on sweltering summer days, it’s an ideal solo act — a chilled glassful serving as your go-to heatwave extinguisher.
What is it about Honeydew Lemonade that I don’t love? From the maze of flavors to the nutritional rewards and the recipes it compliments, this one is a clear winner in my books. A testament to my love for the lighter, fresher side of cooking and a nod to the abundance of the sunny valleys where I was raised.
What You’ll Need
- 1 large honeydew melon
- 1 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 4 cups of water
- 1/2 cup of honey
- Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
- Ice cubes
Method
Step One
Start by cutting the honeydew melon in half. Scoop out the seeds, then use a knife to remove the skin. After the skin is removed, roughly chop the melon into chunks.
Step Two
Place the honeydew melon chunks into a blender or a food processor. Blend until the fruit is pureed. You should have around 4 cups of puree.
Step Three
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and 1 cup of water. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once the sugar has dissolved, remove the pan from the heat and allow the syrup to cool.
Step Four
In a large pitcher, combine the honeydew puree, the cooled sugar syrup, lemon juice, and the remaining 3 cups of water. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Step Five
Add the honey to the pitcher, stirring until it is fully incorporated. If desired, you can strain the lemonade to remove any unwanted pulp.
Step Six
To serve, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the lemonade over the top. If you like, garnish each glass with a fresh mint leaf.
