How to Make Watermelon Agua Fresca
Updated: Sep. 16, 2022
This watermelon agua fresca is the perfect way to beat the heat.
There’s nothing more refreshing than a cool, fruit-flavored drink on a hot day. This recipe is trending on Instagram and TikTok—and for good reason! You can make a batch of light, delicious homemade watermelon agua fresca in 5 minutes flat.
What Is Agua Fresca?
Indigenous to Mexico and Central America, agua fresca is a beverage typically made from a blend of fruit, water and a touch of sweetener. Most people consume this refreshing drink during the hot summer months, and it’s often compared to lemonade. But unlike lemonade, most aguas frescas are subtle and lightly sweetened.
This Mexican drink has become increasingly popular in the U.S. And while there are a ton of delicious ways to enjoy this beverage, the preferred flavors are watermelon and strawberry.
You may be able to find fresh agua fresca at your farmers market or local Mexican restaurant, but it’s easy to make at home, too.
How to Make Watermelon Agua Fresca
This simple recipe makes about 4 servings. You can serve agua fresca solo or with a meal like homemade tacos.
Ingredients
- 4 cups watermelon, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 cups water
- Fresh mint and lime slices for garnish
Directions
Step 1: Blend all ingredients
Add fresh watermelon, lime juice, sugar and a cup of water to a blender. Blend until smooth.
Step 2: Strain
Strain the liquid through a mesh sieve. Pour the strained liquid into a pitcher and mix with the remaining 1 cup of water.
Serve over ice and garnish with fresh mint and slices of lime. You have a watermelon agua fresca!
What Other Fruit Can You Use to Make Agua Fresca?
While watermelon remains one of the most popular aguas frescas, there are several other popular fruit options. When deciding on the perfect fruit, choose one that’s naturally sweet and/or hydrating. If you’re feeling a little creative, blend two different fruits for more flavor! Here are a few great choices:
- Strawberries
- Pineapple
- Mangoes
- Honeydew
- Cantaloupe
- Cucumbers
Is Agua Fresca Healthy?
Unlike most fruity beverages, agua fresca contains little to no added sugar. It’s also made mostly of water, making this beverage a healthier alternative when compared to other sweetened drinks.
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