I've been making this drink for years, but never would have thought to share it here. It seemed too simple. I made it for my mom a few days ago, though, and she asked why I hadn't posted it yet, so here it is!
So is it a juice or a smoothie? It's sort of in between, because you just need a blender, but it's not thick or creamy like smoothies often are. Watermelon is the star, so it is powerfully pink, whatever you want to call it. This drink sums up summer to me. It's bright pink, and bright tasting, but not super sweet. Refresh yourself. It's is a great option for watermelon that's sweet but not really crisp.
Watermelon is about 92% water, but boasts a whole host of beneficial nutrients inside that green shell. It's high in vitamins A, B6, and C (awesome for beautiful skin and hair), lycopene, antioxidants, and amino acids. This friendly little melon has some of the highest lycopene levels of any fresh produce. Lycopene is linked to a healthy heart and bones, and can help prevent prostate cancer (source). Just keep in mind that if you eat a whole watermelon in a day, your body might overload on lycopene and make you sick. I know I've done it.
Cost Breakdown
It really depends on where you live and the time of year for this one. I got a watermelon for four dollars the other day, but that's crazy cheap here. Seven or eight bucks is more the average. I picked the strawberries at a u-pick, but they'll be a little pricier in the supermarket (if out of season, always buy frozen - they're picked at their peak, and are a way better deal). Whole limes are cheaper than buying the bottled juice, and that shit is full of additives anyway. I'd say that as long as you get the watermelon while it's in season, you'll do all right here. If you see some really well priced melons, pick them up, chop them up, and freeze in bags so you can have a taste of summer all year round.
I photographed the quiche recipe right after this, and drank that whole bottle while I was doing it. Food photography is hot work.
Cost ~$4.00
Makes about six and a half cups, or a litre and a half
Ingredients:
1/4 of a large watermelon, chopped (about 7 cups) fresh or frozen
2 cups frozen strawberries
1/2 cup frozen raspberries
Juice of 3 limes
1 tablespoon raw honey or other liquid sweetener (optional)
Throw everything into to a blender and mix for a couple of minutes, or until very smooth. Serve cold. It's best fresh, but will keep in the fridge for a few days.
Labels: drinks, low fat, quick and easy, raw, refined sugar free, seasonal, strawberries, sugar free, summer, vegan, watermelon
