With summer on the horizon, it's time to start experimenting with delicious treats that will cool you down during the hot days.
Watermelon smoothies are a great way to make something sweet and refreshing - but what goes best with watermelon?
We've done the research and have identified the 10 BEST pairings for watermelon smoothies.
From classic ingredients like coconut milk and mint to some unexpected surprises like avocado and mango, we'll highlight everything you need to know about these tempting combinations.
So, if you're looking to craft the perfect iced treat this summer, then you won't want to miss out on this helpful article.
Why Watermelon is a Great Smoothie Ingredient?
Watermelon is often overlooked as a smoothie ingredient, but it's actually one of the best fruits to use in a healthful and delicious smoothie.
Its high water content means that you don't need to add any additional liquids like milk or juice, and its natural sweetness makes it very palatable for simple recipes such as 16 keto smoothie bowls without heavy sugar.
Watermelon is also packed with essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, Vitamin A, Potassium, Magnesium and Iron.
All these nutrients make watermelon an ideal smoothie ingredient for making sure your body stays healthy and energized throughout the day.
Also, watermelons are incredibly versatile in terms of flavor combinations; although it may not be the first flavor that you think of adding to your smoothie recipe, it can certainly help create a nice drink that is both refreshingly sweet as well as nutritious.
Criteria for Choosing Pairings
There are numerous criteria to consider.
As watermelon is a naturally sweet and cooling fruit, it is best paired with other fruits that have similar flavors.
Also, when selecting ingredients for a smoothie there are health benefits to think about as well.
The following criteria can help you find the perfect pairings for your watermelon smoothie:
- Sweetness: Watermelon has a naturally sweet flavor and goes well with other seasonal fruits that contain their own natural sugar such as peaches, mangoes and apricots.
- pH balance: Adding acidic ingredients such as pineapple or lime can help offset the sweetness of the watermelon while boosting flavors and providing an important nutritional element like Vitamin C.
- Texture: Choosing other ingredients with a softer texture will create more of an overall creamier consistency while those with firmer textures will add nutritional benefits like fiber and protein along with an enjoyable crunchy element to your smoothie.
- Creaminess: Add nut milks such as almond milk or oat milk for calming creaminess in your watermelon-based smoothies if you don't want to opt for dairy products or yogurt which may be too heavy on their own depending on how many other ingredients you are using in your recipe.
- Health Benefits: For even more nutrition try adding veggies like spinach or kale into your mix - this way you're sure to get plenty of vitamins and minerals without mushing up your perfect summertime treat.
For additional ideas on what goes well with Watermelon, check out our quick list of ten delicious pairings below.
Best Flavor Pairings for Watermelon Smoothies
Watermelon, with its naturally sweet taste and high hydration levels, is a perfect main ingredient for refreshing smoothies.
You can combine the juicy watermelon flavor with a variety of fruits, but there are some low-sodium side dishes with clean flavor and pairings that will make your smoothie even more delicious and nutritious.
Try adding any of the following to your watermelon smoothie:
1. Mint
Adding a hint of mint to your watermelon smoothie will give your favorite summer fruit a new life.
Mint is one of the best flavor combinations with watermelon and it's perfect for hot summer days.
Enjoy the refreshing sweetness of mint and the juicy flavor from watermelon that will make you want to slurp up another glass.
Plus, this combination is loaded with Vitamin A and antioxidants that can give your daily diet an extra boost.
Add a few tablespoons of freshly chopped or frozen mint leaves into your smoothie for an invigorating health boost.
2. Lime
While lime might not be one of the first ingredients that comes to mind, it can add a refreshing touch to watermelon smoothies.
Due to its zesty flavor, lime juice or zest can help balance out the sweetness of the watermelon.
In addition, with its natural antioxidants, adding a bit of zesty flavor won't only provide an extra touch of yummy flavor but also adds an extra kick of essential nutrients.
As an alternative to using fresh limes, you can also use bottled lime juice or even frozen limes.
3. Ginger
Ginger is often used to treat digestive problems, and its spicy-sweet notes are balanced nicely with watermelon's sweetness - learn about ginger shelf life guide to keep fresh roots on hand for smoothies.
For some recipes, you can combine ¼ teaspoon of freshly grated ginger with ½ cup of watermelon cubes, 1 banana and ½ cup of vanilla yogurt for a healthy snack.
Ginger adds a slightly nutty flavor to a smoothie and also has anti-inflammatory properties.
It goes well with the refreshing taste of watermelon, and can help bring out more subtle flavors in your fruit base.
Consider adding some honey or agave syrup if you like it extra sweet.
4. Pineapple
Pineapple makes an excellent companion to watermelon in a smoothie -- it adds a sweet and sour flavor that is both complex and refreshing.
Also, pineapple offers a source of dietary fiber and manganese for added health benefits.
For an extra punch of tropical flavor, use frozen cubes of pineapple rather than fresh, and read pineapple juice shelf life tips when using juice as an alternative liquid.
5. Strawberry
Adding strawberries to your watermelon smoothie gives it a tangy flavor boost and a bright pink hue - similar fruit pairing ideas appear in a strawberry spinach salad recipe that balances sweet and tart.
As well as providing a delicious taste, this pairing also increases the antioxidant levels of the smoothie.
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C and anthocyanins, which both support the immune system and may reduce the risk of some diseases.
This pairing is particularly good for anyone who likes sweeter smoothies and those who are looking for an easy way to add more antioxidants to their diet.
6. Basil
Basil pairs exceptionally well with watermelon in a smoothie - the same herb-forward approach appears in vegan bruschetta recipes that showcase basil's bright notes.
The sweet earthiness of the basil brightens the watermelon's sweetness and adds the perfect herbal notes to balance out this delicious drink.
Basil is often paired with savory dishes, but it can also be used to enhance fruity flavors.
Plus, basil contains vitamin K, iron, calcium, manganese and other essential nutrients that can help support your immune system and metabolism when consumed on a regular basis.
Ideal for those looking for a flavorful addition to an already delicious smoothie concoction, try blending some fresh torn basil leaves with your favorite fruits such as watermelon and banana for a tempting finish.
7. Lemon
Lemon is a great citrus addition to a watermelon smoothie.
Its tartness offsets the sweetness of the watermelon and creates a great flavor balance.
It also helps to bring out other flavors in the smoothie.
Enjoy the combination of watermelon and lemon either freshly squeezed for added nutrients or as lemon juice for convenience - and consider how sauces for lemon ricotta ravioli use lemon to balance richness in other dishes.
You can adjust the quantities according to your taste preferences, but make sure that you don't overwhelm your smoothie with tartness.
8. Cucumber
Cucumber offers several benefits to smoothies, not least among them its subtle, refreshing flavor - similar cucumber uses appear in a cucumber tomato avocado salad that highlights cooling texture.
The crisp flavor of cucumber contrasts well with the sweetness of watermelon while also providing excellent hydration.
As a detoxifier, cucumber can help pull out toxins through both urination and sweat without bothering the kidneys or liver.
Cucumbers are low in calories and contain significant amounts of vitamins A and C as well as dietary fiber and magnesium.
While it should be used sparingly, cucumbers also contain beta-carotene which helps to neutralize free radicals from the body.
Adding cucumber to your smoothie when pairing it with watermelon will give you a fruity, flavorful beverage high in nutrients that will leave you feeling energized and refreshed.
To add crunchiness, try mixing cubed cucumbers directly into your smoothie rather than blending them into a liquid first.
9. Peach
The sweet and juicy peach is a good addition to watermelon smoothies.
Peaches are high in fiber and contain vitamin C, as well as other vitamins and minerals.
They also have very low calories and lots of antioxidants which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Together with watermelon, you have a powerhouse health combination.
The flavor pairing is also delicious: peaches bring out the sweetness of watermelon while adding complexity to the overall flavor.
Try adding some peach slices or Peach juice to your next Watermelon smoothie.
10. Blueberry
The combination of sweet and tart brings together the best of both worlds with this pairing.
Watermelon and blueberry are a perfect match for those looking for a mild, fruity combination in a smoothie.
Blueberry is also high in dietary fiber; which can help contribute to better overall digestive health.
Adding blueberries to your smoothie is an easy way to get in extra antioxidants while enjoying the deliciousness as well.
Pair watermelon dishes with complementary sides like what to serve with watermelon salad? 10 best side dishes and consider chilled options listed in what to serve with watermelon gazpacho? 10 best side dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
A pairing that balances the richness or freshness of Watermelon Smoothies works best. Consider the texture and flavor of the main dish when making your choice.
Avoid options that are too sharp, heavy, or overpowering for Watermelon Smoothies. Strong flavors can clash with the main dish rather than complement it.
Aim for a contrast - if the main dish is soft and saucy, a crispy or firm side adds welcome variety. If it is already textured, a smooth or creamy option rounds things out.
Most grain and roasted vegetable sides can be prepped a day ahead. Store separately and reheat before serving.
Fresh salads and anything with a sauce are better made same-day.