A refreshing drink like this agua fresca made with watermelon is just what you need to beat the heat.
On a hot day, there is nothing more satisfying than an ice-cold drink with the flavor of the fruit. Because it’s so delicious, this recipe is all over social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. In just five minutes, you can whip up a batch of refreshing homemade watermelon agua fresca that is light and flavorful.
What Is Agua Fresca?
A refreshing drink that originated in Mexico and Central America, agua fresca is commonly prepared by combining different types of fruit with water and a little sugar. This cool beverage, sometimes compared to lemonade, is typically consumed by most people throughout the hotter months of the year. Yet, unlike lemonade, most aguas frescas have a more muted flavor and are minimally sweetened.
This Mexican beverage’s notoriety in the United States has increased recently. The most popular varieties of this beverage are strawberry and watermelon, even though there are many delicious ways to consume it.
You might be able to purchase fresh agua fresca at your local farmer’s market or Mexican restaurant, but it’s also very simple to prepare at home.
How to Make Watermelon Agua Fresca
This straightforward recipe yields around 4 portions. Fresh water can be consumed independently or with a meal such as homemade tacos.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons of watermelon cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 ounces of water
- Slices of lime and fresh mint are used as garnish.
Directions
Step 1: Mix all ingredients
Combine sugar, lime juice, fresh watermelon, and one cup of water in a blender. Blend until smooth. Combine until there are no lumps.
Step 2: Strain
Pass the liquid through a sieve with a fine mesh. Pour the liquid that has been strained into a pitcher, then add the remaining one cup of water and mix thoroughly.
Pour over ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves and lime slices to serve. You are drinking an agua fresca made from watermelon.
What Other Fruit Can You Use to Make Agua Fresca?
Although watermelon remains one of the most popular choices for aguas frescas, several other fruit options are also very popular. Choose a naturally sweet and/or hydrating fruit when looking for the ideal piece of produce to munch on. If you want to increase the taste in your dish, try combining two distinct kinds of fruit. Here are some wonderful options to consider:
- Strawberries
- Pineapple
- Mangoes
- Honeydew
- Cantaloupe
- Cucumbers
Is Agua Fresca Healthy?
Agua fresca, in contrast to the vast majority of fruit-flavored beverages, typically has very little to no added sugar. Because most of its constituents are water, this beverage is a more nutritious option for those that are sweetened compared to others in its category.
Learn more: What Is an Aperol Spritz and How Do You Make It?