Description
This refreshing Strawberry Agua Fresca is a cool and vibrant Mexican-inspired beverage perfect for hot days. Made with fresh strawberries, lime juice, and lightly sweetened with sugar, it’s blended and strained to create a smooth, fruity drink. Served chilled over ice and garnished with mint, it’s easy to prepare and wonderfully hydrating.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit Mixture
- 1 lb. fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 Tbsp. fresh lime juice (from 1 lime)
Other Ingredients
- 4 cups water
- Ice, as needed
- Mint sprigs, for garnish
Instructions
- Macerate the strawberries: Add the halved strawberries and granulated sugar to a bowl. Toss to combine well and let the mixture sit at room temperature for about one hour, stirring occasionally to help release the juices and soften the berries.
- Blend the macerated strawberries: Transfer the strawberry-sugar mixture along with the fresh lime juice into a blender or food processor. Process on high speed for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is fully blended and smooth.
- Strain the berry mixture: Place a fine mesh strainer over a large pitcher. Pour the blended strawberry mixture into the strainer and use a spoon or spatula to stir, helping the liquid drain through. Discard the leftover solids to achieve a smooth drink.
- Add water: Pour in 4 cups of cold water into the strained strawberry liquid in the pitcher. Stir to combine. Taste the agua fresca and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if desired, mixing until dissolved.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the strawberry agua fresca for approximately 2 hours until it is well chilled. Serve over ice cubes and garnish each glass with a fresh mint sprig for an added touch of aroma and color.
Notes
- For a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar or use a natural sweetener.
- To intensify the strawberry flavor, use very ripe berries or allow the mixture to macerate for slightly longer.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor; bottled lime juice may affect the freshness of the drink.
- This recipe can be doubled easily for larger gatherings.
- Store leftover agua fresca in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; stir before serving as separation may occur.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mexican
