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Watermelon Agua Fresca

A crisp, lightly sweetened Mexican-style watermelon refresher made with the perfect fruit-to-water ratio for maximum flavor without dilution.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Calories: 85
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 cups seedless watermelon cubed (about 1.5 lbs / 680g)
  • 3 cups cold water divided
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice from about 1 lime
  • 1-2 tablespoons granulated sugar or agave nectar to taste
  • 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt optional, enhances sweetness
  • Ice cubes for serving
  • Fresh mint sprigs or lime wheels for garnish

Equipment

  • blender
  • fine-mesh strainer
  • Large pitcher
  • chef's knife
  • cutting board

Method
 

  1. Place the cubed watermelon in a blender. Add 1 cup of the cold water. Blend on high until completely smooth, about 30-45 seconds. You should see no solid chunks remaining.
  2. Set a fine-mesh strainer over a large pitcher. Pour the watermelon puree through the strainer. Use the back of a spatula to gently press and stir the pulp, extracting as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
  3. Add the remaining 2 cups cold water, lime juice, sugar (or agave), and salt to the pitcher. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved, about 1 minute.
  4. Taste and adjust: If the agua fresca tastes flat, add another squeeze of lime. If it's too sweet, add a splash more water. If it lacks depth, a tiny pinch more salt can brighten it.
  5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. The flavors meld and the drink becomes more cohesive as it chills.
  6. Serve over ice. Garnish each glass with a mint sprig or lime wheel. Stir before pouring, as natural sediment can settle.

Notes

Storage: Keep refrigerated in a sealed pitcher for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving as pulp will settle. Do not freeze, as the texture will become grainy upon thawing. For a sweeter watermelon, reduce or omit the added sugar. This recipe is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free. For a low-sugar option, use a sugar substitute like monk fruit, but note the flavor may differ slightly. Always consult a qualified professional for personal dietary decisions.