Agua Fresca

If you’ve never tried aqua fresca (translation: fresh or cool water), you are in for a treat. It is a sort of mini vacation in a glass.

In the midst of hot summer days, this Mexican inspired beverage is so refreshing and a great change from sodas and other sugary drinks. And the bonus is that it is very easy to make with your favorite fruit.

Basically aqua fresca is a combination of water and fruit. But it isn’t just fruit juice flavored water. Instead the water is flavored with the whole fruit. Fruit is pureed and added to water and ice. For this version we used watermelon because melons in particular lend themselves well to aqua fresca, but try berries or peaches, or maybe your favorite citrus fruit as well. You can also combine several fruits, or add flavor with cucumbers and/or mint, basil, tarragon or thyme.

No matter what fruit or herb you choose, give this a try and be prepared to feel refreshed and ready for the feeling that with an aqua fresca in your hand, whatever you’re doing has now become a celebration!

Agua Fresca
2 cups watermelon (or your favorite fruit)
2 cups ice
2 cups water
juice of 1 lime
2 -4 tablespoons of sweetener like agave syrup, stevia, or sugar
mint as garnish

Place cut up pieces of watermelon in a blender with lime juice, and agave syrup or other sweetener and blend until completely combined. Add ice and water and blend again. Taste and adjust sweetener or amount of water to suit your taste. Garnish with a spring of fresh mint.
This is the basic recipe and method, but try your favorite fruit or combination of fresh fruits and get creative and add some herbs. And if you want to make this an adult beverage, you could also add a splash of vodka. Just enjoy…summer is short and it is calling!