Aguas Frescas
A simple summertime essential
Written by Julie on July 11, 2024
Hey there! If you’re searching for the ultimate summer thirst quencher, look no further than this Aguas Frescas recipe. It’s a taste of sunshine, a splash of pure refreshment, and a drink that transports me straight to the mercados of Mexico. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s a delicious, customizable drink the whole family will love — perfect for beating the heat (and maybe even bribing your kids to do chores… just kidding… mostly).
Whenever we get to take a trip to Mexico, one of our first stops is at the mercado, sampling all the different aguas frescas. It’s like a treasure hunt — we’re always on the lookout to find the best of the best. Whether it’s watermelon, pineapple, or cantaloupe, these drinks are always a hit.
It’s easy to make, and it’s our family’s go-to for quenching thirst on scorching afternoons (especially after my son’s been mowing the lawn!). Plus, it adds the perfect touch to backyard barbecues or any summer gathering!
Why You’ll Love These Aguas Frescas
Endless Flavor Combinations: The flavor possibilities are limitless! From juicy watermelon to tropical pineapple, you can create a unique Aguas Frescas to suit your mood and cravings.
Natural Refreshment: Made with real fruit and minimal added sugar, it’s a healthier alternative to sugary sodas and juices.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, barbecues, or simply a refreshing afternoon treat. It’s a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.
Easy to Make: No fancy equipment or complicated steps required. Just blend, chill, and enjoy!
Did you know: Watermelon packs a powerful punch of lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease.
How To Make Aguas Frescas
Step 1.
Cut a watermelon into chopped pieces.
Step 2.
Add the chopped watermelon and water to a blender.
Step 3.
Blend on medium-high and add the sugar and lime (if using).
Step 4.
Using a whisk or spoon, stir to combine.
Step 5.
And that’s it! Pour into a serving glass, add ice cubes, fresh mint, etc. Enjoy!
Flavor Combinations to Try
Classic Watermelon: My favorite! The sweetness of ripe watermelon pairs perfectly with lime’s tangy notes.
Tropical Pineapple: A burst of sunshine in a glass. Add a pinch of ginger for an extra zing.
Refreshing Cantaloupe: Subtly sweet and incredibly refreshing on its own, or try adding a few sprigs of mint for extra flavor.
In the Kitchen Tips
Taste before you sweeten: Blend your fruit and lime juice (if using) first. The natural sweetness of the fruit might surprise you, and you might not need any additional sweetener at all.
Find your just-right balance: Start with less water and add more until you reach your desired consistency. You can always add more.
Rim It: For a festive touch, rim your glasses with Tajín (a chili-lime seasoning) or sugar before serving. It adds a fun pop of flavor.
Fizzy Fun: Add a splash of sparkling water or club soda for a bubbly twist.
Spice It Up: A pinch of chili powder or a few slices of jalapeño can add a delicious kick to your Aguas Frescas (just maybe not in the kids’ glasses!).
Don’t forget the pulp: Straining is optional. Straining creates a smoother drink, but keeping the pulp adds fiber and nutrients.
Get creative with garnishes: A few sprigs of fresh mint or a slice of cucumber.
Freeze it: If you have leftover Aguas Frescas, freeze it into ice pops.
FAQ
What are Aguas Frescas?
Refreshing Mexican drinks made from blended fruit, water, lime, and sometimes a sweetener.What fruits can I use in Aguas Frescas?
Almost any fruit works! Popular options include watermelon, cantaloupe, pineapple, berries, and even cucumbers.Do I have to strain Aguas Frescas?
No, but straining will give you a smoother drink. Keeping the pulp adds fiber and nutrients.
Can I make Aguas Frescas ahead of time?
Yes! Store in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before serving.Are Aguas Frescas healthy?
Compared to soda, yes! It’s naturally sweetened by fruit and packed with vitamins and minerals.Can I freeze Aguas Frescas?
Absolutely! Freeze leftovers in ice cube trays or popsicle molds for a fun treat.
Equipment List
Fine-mesh sieve or Nut milk bag (optional)
Large pitcher
Ice cube trays or molds (if freezing)
Easy Aguas Frescas Recipe
Aguas Frescas Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups chopped watermelon
- 4 cups water
- (optional) 4 Tbsp fresh lime juice
- (optional) 1/4 to 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or naturally sweetened with maple syrup/agave nectar using the same amount)
- Ice cubes
- 4 cups chopped cantaloupe
- 4 cups water
- (optional) 1/4 to 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or naturally sweetened with maple syrup/agave nectar using the same amount)
- Ice cubes
- 4 cups chopped pineapple
- 4 cups water
- (optional) 1/4 to 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or naturally sweetened with maple syrup/agave nectar using the same amount)
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Combine the chopped watermelon and water in a blender. Blend until smooth.
- Transfer to a pitcher or mixing bowl. Add sweetener and lime juice (if using), and mix well to combine.
- Pour over ice and garnish with a lime wedge and fresh mint. Enjoy!
- Chop cantaloupe into chunks. Remove seeds from the center using a spoon.
- Combine chopped cantaloupe and water in a blender. Blend until smooth.
- Using a nut milk bag, strain out the pulp.
- Transfer to a pitcher or mixing bowl and add sweetener (if using). Mix well to combine.
- Pour over ice and enjoy!
- Combine chopped pineapple and water in a blender. Blend until smooth.
- Using a nut milk bag, strain out the pulp.
- Transfer to a pitcher or mixing bowl and add the sweetener (if using). Mix well to combine.
- Pour over ice. Enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust the water to your liking: This is the ratio we like, but you can adjust the amount of water to your preference.
- We use granulated sugar, maple syrup, or agave. Start with less and add more to taste. If your fruit is super sweet, you might not need any sweetener at all!
There you have it — a simple and refreshing Aguas Frescas recipe that’s perfect for summer! It’s quick to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a barbecue, this drink is sure to be a hit.
Give it a try and let me know how you like it in the comments below!
See you next time!
