How To Make A Refreshing Watermelon Shandy With Just 3 Ingredients

A watermelon shandy is a delightful and refreshing beverage perfect for hot summer days. To make this invigorating drink, you will need just three simple ingredients: fresh watermelon, light beer, and lime. Start by cutting a ripe watermelon into chunks, removing any seeds, and blending the pieces until smooth to create a vibrant watermelon juice. Strain the juice through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a pitcher to remove any pulp, ensuring a smooth texture. Next, select a light beer such as a lager or pilsner to complement the sweetness of the watermelon without overpowering its delicate flavor. Pour the beer into the pitcher with the watermelon juice, gently stirring to combine the two ingredients. Lastly, squeeze fresh lime juice into the mixture, adding a tangy twist that enhances the overall taste. Adjust the lime to your preference for a more or less tart finish. Serve the shandy over ice in chilled glasses, garnishing with a slice of lime or a small wedge of watermelon for an extra touch of summer flair. This simple yet delicious drink is sure to become a favorite for gatherings, barbecues, or any warm-weather occasion.
Advertisement

Freestyle your watermelon shandy

Our recipe pairs wonderfully with a wheat beer or pale lager, but feel free to customize your drink to suit your taste. You can easily swap the beer for a citrus-flavored hard cider or hard lemonade. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, consider using ginger beer, which is typically alcohol-free. For those looking for a stronger kick, adding curaçao or a shot of rum—derived from fermented sugarcane juice—can enhance the sweetness.

To give your drink an extra zesty twist, mix in a splash of lemon, lime, grapefruit, or pineapple juice for a tangy boost that brings your shandy back to its origins. You can stick to our three-ingredient recipe without needing vanilla syrup; alternatives like agave nectar, mint syrup, simple syrup, honey syrup, or grenadine can all enrich the flavor of your shandy. If fresh watermelon isn’t available, you can substitute it with watermelon Italian ice for a refreshing frozen version.

Regardless of what you have in your fridge or bar, there's a good chance you can whip up a quick cocktail. Shandies are a fantastic choice when you're short on groceries due to their flexibility and affordability. Cheers to enhancing your beer with this delightful three-ingredient take on a British classic!

Recommended

Next up

Advertisement