This Watermelon Juice Recipe with chia seeds is delicious, satisfying, and much better for blood sugar control than plain watermelon juice. Chia seeds slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, and add protein, fiber, and omega 3s to this refreshing juice.
Plus, this watermelon juice lasts up to four days in the refrigerator. It's the perfect post-workout refreshment, healthy snack, or party drink! Add some fresh mint for garnish and serve this at your summer pool parties, barbecues, and picnics.
This recipe was inspired by my Lemon & Ginger Tea ice cubes, as well as this Banana Chia Pudding recipe with no added sugars.
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👩🏼🌾 Ingredients
- Watermelon contains about 92% water, which makes it an excellent hydrating food. It's nutrient-rich, and is a good source of antioxidants, including lycopene, beta-carotene, and vitamin C. These compounds help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, certain cancers, and inflammation. Watermelon is relatively low in calories, and naturally cholesterol-free.
- Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber, providing both soluble and insoluble fiber, which supports digestive health, regulates blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness. They are also a source of plant-based protein and contain all nine essential amino acids. Chia seeds can absorb large amounts of liquid, forming a gel-like consistency. This property can help maintain hydration. This is especially beneficial for when you are physically active.
- Lime juice adds a slight tang, and citrusy quality to this watermelon drink recipe.
- Fresh mint brightens the flavor and adds a herbal freshness.
- Add a dash of Tajin if you have some on hand. It is a popular Mexican seasoning blend known for its unique flavor profile. It is primarily made from a combination of chili peppers, lime, and salt.
See recipe card for quantities.
🍉 Substitutions
- Watermelon - instead of watermelon, try adding gelled chia seeds to cantaloupe, apple, orange, or a different fruit juice of your choice
- Lime - use lemon zest and juice instead and make a watermelon lemonade
- Tajin - Tajin is the perfect seasoning for fresh fruit. Add some to this juice for a kick.
- Tequila or white rum - add a splash of alcohol as desired
- Mint - omit as desired
- Salt - add a pinch for more flavor
See this naturally sweetened Chocolate Chia Pudding on my website.
📖 Instructions
Step 1. Gel the chia seeds: Add the chia seeds to 2 cups water. Mix well. Set aside for 10 minutes. Stir frequently so they evenly gel.
Step 2. Scoop the watermelon and transfer it to a blender.
Step 3. Blend the watermelon with the lime zest and juice, and mint until smooth.
Step 4. Pour the gelled chia seeds into the blender with the watermelon juice. Pulse a few times until evenly incorporated.
💡 Expert Tips
- Use a standard 4-ounce ice cream scoop (#8) to remove the watermelon flesh for ease! Or cut it into 1-inch cubes.
- Stir the chia seeds frequently in the water so they gel evenly. Don't use expired seeds as they will fall to the bottom and not gel well.
- Find a good quality watermelon. Watermelon juice is only as good as the melon you use!
- Storage: Refrigerate any remaining watermelon drink in a pitcher with a lid, or in a thermos, for up to 4 days. Stir before serving.
🙋🏽♀️ Recipe FAQs
Watermelon juice is rich in lycopene – a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrient along with flavonoids and carotenoids that make it a top choice amongst fruits in the fight against the damaging free radicals.
No. A regular blender works perfectly well. Just make sure to use a seedless watermelon, or remove the seeds before blending.
Chia seeds are rich in soluble fiber, which absorbs liquid and forms a gel-like consistency in the stomach. This gel can help increase feelings of fullness and satiety, potentially reducing calorie intake and preventing overeating. This refreshing Watermelon Juice recipe with chia seeds beverage can be consumed throughout the day, potentially helping to curb appetite and support hydration. However, it's important to keep in mind that a balanced diet is the healthiest, and that chia water should not be relied upon for weight loss.
🍽 Related Recipes
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📖 Recipe
Watermelon Juice Recipe
Ingredients
- ¼ cup chia seeds
- 6 packed scoops seedless watermelon or 4 ½ cups of 1-inch cubes (about one-half of a small mini watermelon)
- Zest and juice of one-half lime
- 6 large mint leaves
- Dash of Tajin seasoning (optional)
Instructions
- Gel the chia seeds: Add the chia seeds to 2 cups water. Mix well. Set aside for 10 minutes. Stir frequently so they evenly gel.
- Scoop the watermelon: Slice the watermelon in half. Using a 4 oz scoop (or standard #8 ice cream scoop), scoop chunks of watermelon into the blender. Discard the rind. Or cut the watermelon into 1-inch cubes and add 4 ½ cups to a blender.
- Blend: Add the lime zest and juice, and mint to the blender. Blend until smooth.
- Combine: Pour the gelled chia seeds into the blender with the watermelon juice.
- Pulse a few times until evenly incorporated.
Notes
-
- Use a standard 4-ounce ice cream scoop (#8) to remove the watermelon flesh for ease! Or cut it into 1-inch cubes.
-
- Stir the chia seeds frequently while they are forming a gel so they gel evenly. Don't use expired chia seeds as they will fall to the bottom and not gel well.
-
- Find a good quality watermelon. Watermelon juice is only as good as the melon you use!
-
- Storage: Refrigerate any remaining watermelon juice with chia seeds in a pitcher with a lid, or a thermos, for up to 4 days. Stir before serving.
Nutrition
This information is provided as a courtesy and is an ESTIMATE only. Varying factors such as product types or brands purchased can change the nutritional information in any given recipe.
Neena Chandiramani
So good for you and delicious 😋 too!
Nisha Melvani
It's so refreshing too! Thank you.
Primla Goddard
So refreshing! The chia seeds add the protein, fiber and omega 3s ! Awesome combination!
Nisha Melvani
Thank you. It's very refreshing! Tastes even better the next day!