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Watermelon Juice (Agua Fresca)

Watermelon Juice (Agua Fresca)

A refreshingly simple yet premium take on classic watermelon juice, this recipe transforms just chilled melon, a squeeze of bright lime, and a touch of sweetener into a silky smooth, thirst quenching elixir. Strained to perfection and optionally laced with mint or a hint of spice, it’s the ultimate easy to make refresher, ideal on its own or as a vibrant mixer for summer cocktails.
Ingredients

  • 1 medium seedless watermelon (10–12 lb), chilled

  • 1–2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about half a lime)

  • 1–2 tablespoons granulated sugar or honey (optional; adjust to taste)

  • A handful of fresh mint leaves (optional)

  • Ice cubes

Equipment

  • Sharp knife

  • Blender or food processor

  • Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth

  • Pitcher

1. Select & Prep Your Watermelon

  1. Choose well: Look for a symmetrical melon with a creamy yellow “field spot” (where it rested on the ground) and a hollow, deep sounding thump when you tap it.

  2. Chill: Refrigerate at least 2 hours cold melon makes brighter, crisper juice.

  3. Cube: Cut off rind and chop flesh into 1–2 inch pieces.

2. Blend to Puree

  1. Place ¾ of the watermelon cubes in your blender.

  2. Add the lime juice and (if using) sugar/honey and mint leaves.

  3. Pulse on high until completely smooth about 45–60 seconds.

  4. Taste and adjust sweetness or lime, blending briefly to incorporate.

3. Strain for Silky Smoothness

  1. Position a fine mesh strainer (or cheesecloth lined colander) over a large bowl or pitcher.

  2. Pour the puree through, pressing with a spatula to extract every drop. Discard solids.

4. Serve & Garnish

  1. Fill glasses with ice cubes.

  2. Pour juice over ice, stir gently.

  3. Garnish with a mint sprig or a thin lime wheel on the rim.

Pro Tips

  • Mint-infused variation: Lightly muddle mint in the blender for a brighter herbal note.

  • Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or a few slices of fresh jalapeño to the blender.

  • Sparkling twist: Substitute half the watermelon with sparkling water or club soda right before serving.

  • Batch-making: Keeps 1–2 days refrigerated in a sealed pitcher stir before pouring.

Enjoy this ultra refreshing juice on a hot day, or as a naturally sweet mixer in cocktails and mocktails!