Watermelon Agua Fresca

This refreshing drink is popular in Mexico and some other Latin American countries. The words “agua fresca” mean “fresh water” in Spanish. This version is made without a blender.

Serves 2

Ingredients:

• 4 cups chopped seedless watermelon
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Optional: pinch salt (1/16^th teaspoon)

Instructions:

1. Place a strainer over a wide mouth pitcher or bowl.
2. Put 2 cups of chopped watermelon in a gallon resealable bag. Press out the air and seal shut. Squeeze the watermelon chunks until smashed.
3. Pour smashed watermelon out into the prepared strainer allowing the juice to drip through to the pitcher below. Use the back of a large spoon to gently press the watermelon against the strainer to extract as much juice as possible. (Compost or throw away any bits left in the strainer.)
4. Repeat with remaining 2 cups of chopped watermelon.
5. Add in the lime juice and salt (if using). Stir. Pour over ice. Enjoy!

Notes:

• Always wash fruits and vegetables under running water before cutting into them.
• If you have a blender, use it in place of steps 2 – 4 to make this recipe even simpler.
• Some recipes call for adding a cup of cool water to the watermelon juice.
• Try adding some torn basil leaves in step 2 for added flavor.

Recipe adapted by Laurel Sanville MS, RDN, LD