This watermelon cucumber drink is the perfect refreshing hot-weather beverage for summer. With just a few ingredients and a quick blend, you've got a natural slushie that's sweetened by nature, with cucumber melon and agua fresca vibes.
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Looking for a cool, refreshing drink to beat the heat? This watermelon cucumber drink is just what you need! It’s super easy to make, tastes amazing, and only needs a few simple ingredients. The combo of sweet watermelon and crisp cucumber is seriously the best. Whether you’re chilling by the pool or just need a mid-day pick-me-up, this drink is a total win.
Keep reading and we’ll show you how to whip it up in just minutes. You’ll get a quick recipe, easy steps, and a few fun tips to mix it up. Want it extra cold? We’ve got ideas for that too! So grab your blender and let’s make a drink that’s light, tasty, and perfect for sunny days.
If this flavor combination is a favorite of yours, why not try this cucumber watermelon salad, as well? It’s almost like a meal version of this cooler!
A watermelon cucumber cooler is a fantastically refreshing drink perfect for hot days. It’s easy to make and packed with natural flavors. Here’s why you should give this delicious drink a try:
Super Refreshing. Watermelon and cucumber are both packed with water, so this drink is extra hydrating. It’s perfect for hot days, after workouts, or any time you need a cool-down. You’ll feel instantly refreshed with every sip.
Quick and Easy to Make. All you need is a blender and a few simple ingredients. Just toss everything in, blend, and you’re done. No fancy tools or long prep time—just fast, fresh goodness.
Naturally Sweet. Watermelon adds a natural sweetness, so you don’t need much (or any) added sugar. It’s a healthier way to enjoy something sweet and tasty. Plus, it’s totally kid-friendly!
Light and Low-Cal. This drink is super light, so you can sip it all day without feeling weighed down. It’s great if you want something flavorful without a bunch of calories. You’ll stay full of energy, not sugar.
Perfect for Parties. It’s colorful, pretty, and easy to serve in big pitchers. Add ice and some fun straws, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing drink everyone will love. It’s a total hit at summer BBQs, brunch parties, and summer hangouts.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
This watermelon cucumber drink keeps things simple with just a few fresh ingredients that bring big flavor. Each one plays a special role—sweet, crisp, zesty, and icy! We’ll also share easy swaps in case you’re missing something or want to mix it up:
Watermelon – Brings the natural sweetness, bright color, and super juicy base to the drink. It’s what makes the whole thing taste fruity and fun. Use seedless watermelon if you can—it saves time. If it’s not super ripe, add a tiny drizzle of vegan-friendly honey or maple syrup to boost the sweetness. No watermelon? Try ripe cantaloupe or honeydew for a twist—they’re still juicy and sweet!
Cucumber – Adds a fresh, clean flavor that balances out the sweetness. It also makes the drink feel extra hydrating and spa-like. Peel it if the skin is thick or bitter. If you love the flavor, leave the peel on for extra nutrients! Don’t have (or like) cucumber? Try celery for a light, refreshing vibe—just use a little less, since it’s stronger.
Lemon – Lends a tangy kick that wakes everything up. It keeps the drink from being too sweet and gives it a fresh citrusy edge. Fresh lemon juice is best! Add a little zest for an extra punch if you’re feeling fancy. Lime juice works great too—it’s just a bit sharper and super tasty!
Ice – Makes the drink cold, frosty, and oh-so-refreshing. It gives it that slushy feel if you blend it in, or keeps it cool if you serve it over top. For a thicker, smoothie-like texture, blend the ice in. For a lighter sip, just pour the drink over ice cubes. Pro tip: Freeze chunks of watermelon (or watermelon juice) ahead of time and use them instead of ice—they won’t water the drink down!
How to Serve Up Your Watermelon Cucumber Drink
Want to make your watermelon cucumber cooler even better? We’ve got easy tips for extra flavor, fun ways to serve it, and ideas to keep it super cold. Whether you’re sipping solo or serving a crowd, these tricks will take your drink to the next level!
Serve in Mason Jars – Mason jars make everything look extra cute and summery. Add a colorful straw and a mint sprig for an Instagram-worthy drink!
Freeze It Into Ice Cubes – Pour the cooler into an ice cube tray and freeze. Drop the cubes into your drink later to keep it cold without watering it down.
Garnish with Fruit Skewers – Add a little fruit skewer on top with chunks of watermelon, cucumber slices, and maybe a grape or two. It looks fun and doubles as a snack!
Blend It Slushy-Style – Throw in extra ice and blend it into a frosty slushie. Perfect for super hot days or if you want a smoothie-style sip.
Rim the Glass with Citrus Sugar – Mix a little sugar with lemon or lime zest, wet the rim of your glass, and dip it in. It adds sparkle, zing, and a sweet surprise with every sip!
Recipe FAQs
How do I store any leftover cucumber watermelon drink?
If you’re lucky enough to have any liquid left (though we highly doubt you will!), it’s best poured into a covered glass bottle or mason jar and refrigerated. It will be okay for about a day, but any longer than that and it will soon start to sour. Fresh is always best.
Can I freeze this watermelon and cucumber beverage?
You sure can! Pour any leftover cooler in ice cube trays and keep in the freezer. They make a wonderful addition to clear beverages in the summertime, such as seltzer, tonic water, and club soda. The watermelon cucumber cooler cubes can be counted on for about three months stored this way. Super pretty and delicious, too!
If I’m sensitive to watermelon, what can I use instead?
You can use any high-water content fruit that you like. Refreshing options include oranges, strawberries, grapes (with skins removed or strained out), honeydew, or cantaloupe.
Listen while you cook! Tune into my podcast, The Plant Powered People Podcast, while you’re cooking, folding laundry, or taking a bath. It may just change your life!
This watermelon cucumber cooler is the ultimate refreshing beverage. It's easy to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It reminds us of summer time, and porches, and hammocks, and sunsets! Now, invite your friends over already and pour up a drink!
In a blender, add the watermelon, cucumber, lemon, and ice, and blend until you have a smooth slushie consistency. If it doesn't all fit in the blender, add what you can, blend it, and then add more.
Pour into glasses filled with ice and enjoy immediately.
Storage Tip: Pour into a covered glass bottle or mason jar and refrigerated. It will be okay for about a day, but any longer than that and it will soon start to sour. Fresh is always best.
Garnish: Add a slice of lemon and a cucumber spear for an extra-fancy touch.
Don’t Have (or Like) Cucumber? Add a few sprigs of fresh mint instead!
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SO super delicious! I’ve made this recipe at least twice over the past couple of weeks and it’s fantastic! I love the combination of cool cucumber with sweet watermelon. I have to remember to buy more of each so that I have enough to share with other people. lol! I’m too greedy about this. Definitely give it a try!
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One of my faves!
Such a refreshing drink!
Blended watermelon is best! I adore this recipe and the kids adore it too 🙂
This looks so refreshing! Will definitely be making this sometime this summer!
SO super delicious! I’ve made this recipe at least twice over the past couple of weeks and it’s fantastic! I love the combination of cool cucumber with sweet watermelon. I have to remember to buy more of each so that I have enough to share with other people. lol! I’m too greedy about this. Definitely give it a try!
Wow looks so refreshing and looks delicious! I will try this the next pool day!
This is so simple and refreshing…perfect for a hot summer day.
Ahhh, it’s like bath & body works in a glass!!! So refreshing, I want to make this every day of summer!
Watermelon is my absolute favorite!!! What a simple and refreshing recipe