Cool, refreshing and naturally sweet! Before the summer is over and the fruit that we are obsessing over now (berries, peaches, melons) are out-of-season, try making this delicious, naturally-infused water made with real fruit! I make a pitcher of it and leave it in the fridge to enjoy — the colder, the better. Sometimes an entire pitcher only lasts for a day around here! Aqua fresca can be made with any type of melon that you like, but I like to use watermelon since its water content is higher than most fruits at a whopping 92%, making it extremely hydrating.
The recipe (if you can even call it a recipe) couldn’t be easier. As long as your melon is ripe and sweet, you’re good to go. Just grab your blender and a fine mesh sieve and start blending away! As it sits in the fridge, you’ll probably see some separation. This is natural and completely normal. The solids from the watermelon sink to the bottom. Just give it a stir with a wooden spoon and it will quickly reincorporate. The addition of the lime perks up the overall flavor of the water since it’s acidic, giving it a nice balance.
To serve, pour over ice and add a few mint leaves, if desired. You can even use it for cocktails with a splash of white tequila or rum and a few drops of stevia or simple syrup. This beverage is also a lovely addition to any brunch spread or luncheon!
Watermelon-Lime Agua Fresca
Ingredients
- 1/4 of a whole, seedless watermelon, cut into chunks
- 1-2 cups water
- 1 lime
Directions
- Step 1 Cut the melon into chunks, discarding the rind. Add to a high-powered blender.
- Step 2 Puree until smooth, then add water and juice of a lime.
- Step 3 Working over a large, 4-cup measuring cup or bowl, slowly pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve.
- Step 4 Using a metal spoon, work the mixture through the sieve, leaving the solids behind and the aqua fresca into the measuring cup. Continue with all of the aqua fresca.
- Step 5 Pour the liquid into a pitcher and refrigerate. Discard the solids.
