Watermelon Agua Fresca
This agua fresca is mighty refreshing, cooling you down while replenishing some of those electrolytes you've sweat out. Watermelon is particular is high in electrolytes and is a good source of vitamins, making it the oerfect way to rehydrate yourself on a hot day! Not to mention it's super delicious!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves packed
- 1/4 cup sugar or agave syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 5 cups watermelon chunks cut into chunks (from about a 2 1/2-pound watermelon)
- 1 lime juice the whole lime
- mint sprigs stem of mint (for serving)
Instructions
- Remove watermelon from the rind. Cut into 2-inch chunks, no need to remove seeds will strain later. Arrange watermelon chunks in a single layer in a reusable plastic bag or on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Place in the freezer to chill whike making mint syrup for up to 1 1/2 hours. Transfer to airtight freezer bags, if not used immediately. (feel free to omit this step if you're crunched on time.)
- Strain mint syrup and discard mint leaves. Into a blender add the slightly frozen watermelon chunks and lime juice and blend. Taste. If the watermelon is sweet add chilled mint syrup to taste.
- Using a fine-mesh sieve, strain into a pitcher; discard solids. Add 2 cups of water and stir well to combine. Serve with mint sprigs.
- Agua fresca can be stored in a airtight container and chilled for up to one day.
Mint Simple Syrup
- Combine mint leaves, sugar, and water in a small pot. Bring to boil and stir until sugar has dissolved. Stir mint in syrup for 10-15 minutes. Cool. Transfer mixture to a heat proof container with lid.
Notes
CHEF’S NOTE
*If the watermelon is very sweet, the mint syrup can be reduced or omitted.
*No need to seed the watermelon- mixture will be strained. Just purée fruit with mint leaves and add lime juice to taste.
*You can substitute lemon juice for lime with equally good results.
*Lime flavored sparkling water can be a refreshing option. It gives it a bright effervescent note.
*Straining is optional.