This refreshing melon agua fresca is the perfect hydrating summer drink. Sweet, ripe melon is blended with fresh mint, lime juice, and water or coconut water for a light and naturally cooling beverage inspired by traditional Mexican aguas frescas.
Melon Agua Fresca for Delicious and Easy Summer Hydration
I tend to be fiery by nature so when the summer heat rolls around, I have plenty of tools in my arsenal to help keep cool. In order to stay hydrated and get a little cooling action at the same time, I use the combination of mint and lime a lot throughout the summer (case in point this cucumber mint limeade!). They’re the perfect addition to this ridiculously simple and delicious melon agua fresca!
Unlike a smoothie, agua fresca has a lighter texture that makes it especially refreshing on a hot day. Whether you use cantaloupe, honeydew, or watermelon, this easy summer drink recipe comes together in just minutes with the help of a blender. Enjoy this vegan melon drink over ice for a summer cookout, pool day, brunch, or simply when you need a touch of afternoon hydration.
Key Melon Agua Fresca Ingredients
Fresh melon is key to the amazing flavor in this refreshing summer drink. I used a locally grown cantaloupe for the photos but I’ve also made this with watermelon and it’s equally delicious! The “fresh” trend continues with fresh lime juice and a handful of fresh mint leaves. These not only add flavor that complements the sweet melon, they have a cooling effect on the palate. A tiny pinch of sea salt balances flavor while water or coconut water helps everything blend well and keeps it from being too thick like a smoothie.
To Strain, or Not to Strain
Straining comes down to personal preference. If you like a slightly thicker texture and the added fiber, don’t strain your agua fresca. If you prefer a super smooth and light texture, pass your agua fresca through a fine sieve before drinking. Personally, I like both depending on how I’m feeling! Head’s up that if you don’t strain your agua fresca, the fiber will rise to the top and the liquid will settle to the bottom the longer it sits.
My Favorite Summer Pairings
The combination of sweet melon, fresh mint, and tart lime creates a light, hydrating beverage that works well with brunch dishes, tacos, and grain bowls. If brunch is on your mind, try this melon agua fresca with these tofu scramble tacos and some simple roasted potatoes. Or, make it for your next taco night along with these crispy black bean sweet potato tacos. Feel like enjoying the summer sun? Pack your agua fresca for a summer picnic along with this fresh and easy orzo pasta salad.
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Melon Agua Fresca with Mint & Lime
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegan
Description
This refreshing melon agua fresca is the perfect hydrating summer drink. Sweet, ripe melon is blended with fresh mint, lime juice, and water or coconut water for a light and naturally cooling beverage inspired by traditional Mexican aguas frescas.
Ingredients
- 4 cups diced melon, such as cantaloupe or watermelon
- 1 medium lime
- 1 handful fresh mint
- 1/2 cup filtered water, or coconut water
- 1 pinch sea salt
- Sugar, or honey, as needed
Instructions
Add the melon, juice of the lime, and the mint to a blender along with the water or coconut water. Blend until very smooth. Taste and add your favorite sweetener as needed.
If you prefer, you can strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to make it smoother.
Serve chilled or over ice. Enjoy your agua fresca within 2-3 days for the best flavor.
Makes about 1 quart which is enough for 2-3 servings.
Notes
- I used a very ripe and juicy cantaloupe for the batch in the photos and did not need to add any sweetener at all. Taste yours first then go from there!
- Coconut water can be used in place of water to make it extra hydrating.
- If you want a frosty agua fresca, freeze half of the melon before blending.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
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