Cool off with this refreshing 5-minute Watermelon Smoothie. Made with juicy cubed watermelon and sweet honeydew (or cantaloupe), this light, hydrating drink is the perfect thirst-quencher for hot summer days.

This recipe was written on August 11, 2022 and updated with additional information on August 9, 2024.
There’s nothing more satisfying on a warm day than a cool, fruity smoothie. This two-ingredient watermelon smoothie blends juicy watermelon with honeydew or cantaloupe for a naturally sweet, hydrating beverage that’s quick to make and easy to customize. It’s a great way to enjoy fruit that may be slightly grainy or soft for eating fresh—simply freeze the cubes and blend for an icy, slushy texture that reduces food waste and boosts refreshment.

Ingredients
Watermelon: Choose a ripe watermelon with bright color and a firm feel. Seedless is convenient, but seeded watermelon can be deseeded. If the texture is a bit grainy for eating, it works perfectly for blending or freezing.
Melon: Use honeydew for a mild sweetness or cantaloupe for a richer flavor. Look for fruit that yields slightly at the stem end and smells fragrant. Other melons like Juan Canary or Galia also work well.
How to Make a Watermelon Smoothie
- Combine ingredients. Add cubed watermelon and cubed honeydew or cantaloupe to a high-speed blender.
- Blend. Cover and blend until smooth. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.


Recipe Pro-Tips
- Use a high-speed blender. It creates a silky, even texture. If your blender is less powerful, blend in batches and strain if you prefer a smoother drink.
- Freeze the fruit for thickness. Freezing the melon cubes gives a creamier, frostier smoothie without diluting it with ice.
- Garnish for presentation. Add a small wedge of watermelon, a sprig of mint or basil, or a lime wheel to the rim of the glass.
- Serve chilled. For best flavor and texture, serve in chilled glasses or with frozen fruit that doubles as flavored ice.
Recipe Variations
Customize this simple smoothie with any of the following additions to enhance flavor or nutrition:
- Vanilla vegan yogurt: ½ cup adds creaminess and a hint of vanilla.
- Lime juice: Juice of ½ a lime brightens the flavors.
- Orange juice: ¼–½ cup adds citrus sweetness and vitamin C.
- Fresh herbs: 6–8 mint or basil leaves blended in give a refreshing herbal note.
- Frozen berries: ½–1 cup frozen strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries make the smoothie thicker and add tartness.
- Greens: Add 1 cup spinach or a scoop of greens powder for extra nutrients.
- Protein: 1 scoop plant-based protein powder makes it more filling.
- Chia seeds: 1 tablespoon boosts fiber and helps with hydration.
- Sweetener: Add agave or maple syrup to taste if you prefer a sweeter drink.

Serving Suggestions
This refreshing smoothie works well for breakfast, as a mid-day refresher, a post-workout hydrator, or paired with light dishes for brunch. Consider serving it alongside salads, veggie sticks with hummus, or chia puddings for a balanced spread.
- Pair with a light summer salad or fresh fruit.
- Serve as part of a brunch or picnic menu.
- Enjoy after a workout for a hydrating, nutrient-rich boost.
Storage Directions
Smoothies made with fresh watermelon are best enjoyed immediately to preserve their texture and flavor. If necessary, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; shake or stir before serving, as separation may occur.

Frequently Asked Questions
Watermelon blends nicely with many fruits, including honeydew, cantaloupe, strawberries, mango, pineapple, peach, raspberries, blueberries, kiwi, lime, and apple. Mix and match to find your favorite combination.
Yes. Using frozen watermelon and melon cubes yields a thicker, frostier smoothie and removes the need for ice, which can dilute flavor.
Add a little agave nectar or maple syrup to taste, or include naturally sweeter fruits like ripe mango or orange juice.
Yes. It’s naturally sweet and hydrating, and you can easily adapt it to kids’ tastes by adding familiar fruits or yogurt.
Recipe Card
Ingredients
- 3 cups cubed watermelon
- 2 cups cubed honeydew melon or cantaloupe (or another melon)
- 6 large fresh mint and/or basil leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Add the watermelon and melon to a blender. If using mint or basil, add it now.
- Cover and blend until smooth. Serve immediately.
Notes
Storage: Best served fresh. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 24 hours if needed.
Pro tips: Use a high-speed blender for the smoothest texture. Freeze fruit ahead of time for a thicker, slushier drink.