As the sun shines brighter and temperatures rise, a refreshing drink can be the perfect way to cool off. Enter the Watermelon-Lemonade Slush, a vibrant blend of juicy watermelon and zesty lemon, perfect for satisfying your thirst while fitting into your Weight Watchers (WW) plan. This slush is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free treat for warm days. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide detailed instructions, measurements, nutritional information, and helpful tips to ensure your slush turns out perfectly every time.
Ingredients
For the Slush
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into cubes and frozen
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- 1/4 cup honey or a sugar substitute (like Stevia or monk fruit, adjust to taste)
- 1 cup cold water (or sparkling water for a fizzy twist)
- Ice cubes (optional, for added thickness)
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh mint leaves
- Lemon slices
- Watermelon wedges
Equipment Needed
- Blender: A high-speed blender works best for achieving a smooth consistency.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurements.
- Large pitcher: For serving the slush.
- Serving glasses: To enjoy your refreshing drink.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Watermelon
- Cube and Freeze the Watermelon: Start by cutting the seedless watermelon into cubes. Spread the cubes out on a baking sheet in a single layer to prevent them from sticking together. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 2-3 hours, or until the watermelon is completely frozen. This step is crucial for achieving a slushy texture.
Step 2: Make the Lemonade Base
- Squeeze Fresh Lemons: While the watermelon is freezing, juice enough lemons to yield 1/2 cup of fresh lemon juice. It usually takes about 3-4 lemons to reach this amount. Strain the juice to remove any seeds and pulp for a smoother finish.
- Mix Lemonade Ingredients: In a blender, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice with 1/4 cup of honey (or your chosen sugar substitute) and 1 cup of cold water. Blend on low until the honey is fully dissolved. This creates a refreshing lemonade base that balances the sweetness of the watermelon.
Step 3: Blend the Slush
- Combine Ingredients in Blender: Once the watermelon cubes are fully frozen, add them to the blender with the lemonade mixture. If you prefer a thicker slush, you can also add a handful of ice cubes at this stage.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high speed until the mixture reaches a smooth, slushy consistency. Stop the blender to scrape down the sides if necessary. If the slush is too thick, add a little more water; if too thin, add more frozen watermelon.
Step 4: Serve the Slush
- Pour and Garnish: Carefully pour the watermelon-lemonade slush into serving glasses. For a decorative touch, consider garnishing with fresh mint leaves, lemon slices, or small wedges of watermelon.
- Enjoy Immediately: This slush is best served right after preparation. The icy texture is most enjoyable when consumed fresh, as it may melt quickly.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Servings: Approximately 4
- Calories: 70 (using honey)
- Total Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 14g
- Protein: 1g
