Watermelon Cucumber Cooler
This watermelon cucumber cooler is a light, slightly sweet and incredibly refreshing summer drink. Fresh watermelon and cucumber get blended until smooth, then stirred with lime juice, honey and cold water or coconut water and poured over crushed ice. This watermelon cooler takes about 15 minutes and makes enough for a crowd.
It is my favorite pool day and BBQ drink, with or without a splash of tequila. Pair it with my Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad with Honey-Lime Vinaigrette for a full watermelon moment.
Why You’ll Love This Watermelon Cucumber Cooler
- Super refreshing and naturally sweet.
- Just a few fresh ingredients, no mixes.
- Big batch friendly for parties and BBQs.
- Easy to make a cocktail for the grown-ups.
Ingredients for Watermelon Cucumber Cooler
The Cooler
Cubed fresh watermelon, an English cucumber, fresh lime juice, honey and cold water or coconut water.
To Serve
Crushed ice, lime wheels, cucumber ribbons and fresh mint.
Dietary note: This cooler is naturally gluten free and dairy free. Swap the honey for agave or maple syrup to make it vegan.
How to Make a Watermelon Cucumber Cooler
Step 1: Blend
Blend the watermelon and cucumber until smooth.
Step 2: Strain (optional)
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve if you want it extra smooth.
Step 3: Sweeten and stir
Add the lime juice, honey and water or coconut water and stir well.
Step 4: Serve
Pour over crushed ice and garnish with lime wheels, cucumber ribbons and fresh mint.
Carly’s Expert Tips
- Chill the watermelon first for the coldest, most refreshing drink.
- Dissolve the honey by stirring it into a little warm water if it clumps.
- Taste and adjust the honey and lime, since watermelon sweetness varies.
- Strain for parties. It makes the drink smoother and prettier in glasses.
Make It Your Own
- Cocktail: Add tequila, rum or vodka for a boozy version.
- Tropical: Use coconut water instead of plain water.
- Sparkling: Top each glass with sparkling water.
- Spicy: Add a slice of jalapeño or a Tajín rim.
Make-Ahead and Meal Prep: Make the cooler up to 1 day ahead and keep it in a covered pitcher in the fridge. Stir before serving since it separates as it sits.
What to Serve With a Watermelon Cucumber Cooler
Serve with summer favorites like Cajun Honey Butter Chicken Sliders with Tangy Coleslaw, Cowboy Caviar or Mexican Street Corn Dip.
Storing and Reheating
Store in a covered pitcher in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir well before pouring.
Freeze leftovers in ice cube trays to chill future drinks.
What People Ask About Watermelon Cucumber Cooler
Can I use regular cucumbers?
Yes, but English cucumbers have thinner skin and fewer seeds for a smoother drink.
How do I make a watermelon cucumber cooler sweeter?
Add more honey to taste, a little at a time.
Can I make a watermelon cooler ahead?
Yes. Make it up to a day ahead and stir before serving.
Do I need to strain it?
No, it is optional, but straining gives a smoother texture.
Watermelon Cucumber Cooler
Ingredients
Method
- Blend the watermelon and cucumber until smooth.
- Strain the mixture if you want it extra smooth (optional).
- Add the lime juice, honey, and water to the blended mixture.
- Stir well to combine and pour over crushed ice.
- Garnish with lime wheels, cucumber ribbons, and fresh mint before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
- For a cocktail version, add tequila, rum, or vodka to the cooler.
- Straining the blended mixture is optional but gives a smoother texture.
- Use coconut water for a tropical twist.
