It feels like summer has officially arrived, as evidenced by the fact that we’re deck-sailing left and right (that is to say, every weekend)! Of course I love a good cocktail or margarita, but when I’m craving something super hydrating and alcohol free, it’s got to be a pitcher of pink perfection, aka Watermelon Agua Fresca!
Hydrating Agua Fresca
Agua fresca is a cool and refreshing, non-alcoholic drink made by blending fresh fruit and water, and sometimes sugar. To celebrate the beginning of summer, aka watermelon season, I used the naturally super-sweet fruit as the base of my Watermelon Agua Fresca, which eliminated the need for added sugar, then squeezed in fresh lime juice for a touch of tartness. Less sweet than juice, more flavor than those “hint” of xyz waters (which I just can’t get into no matter how hard I try,) Watermelon Agua Fresca is crisp, hydrating and perfectly refreshing. In addition to this Watermelon Agua Fresca being a perfect patio sipping beverage, it’d be great for baby showers, a healthier option for kids vs juice with added sugar, or for a burst of energy and hydration either before or after a hot summer workout. Let’s do this!
Start with a big ol’ watermelon. Look for a watermelon that’s heavy for its size and has a big light-yellow spot on one side, indicating it’s been sitting in the sun ripening to perfection.
Chop the watermelon into big cubes then add 6 cups to a blender with the juice of 1-1/2 limes and 3/4 cup water then blend until very smooth.
Strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher using a spatula to help press every drop from the pulp.
Next grab some mint!
I planted a teeny tiny spearmint plant a few weeks ago and it has blossomed to almost four times its size in about as many weeks. Call me crazy but I always feel wistful snipping fresh herbs when they’ve worked so hard to grow, BUT the best way to make fresh herbs producer faster is to cut and use them.
Whether they’re home-grown or store-bought, spike a few sprigs of fresh mint into the watermelon agua fresca, then chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. When you’re ready to serve, fill the pitcher with ice then pour!
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