agua fresca recipe

You know about the annual Cocktails and Mocktails Extravaganza, but did you know the idea for the party stems from our own family drink competition? It's true.

This year during family vacation, we squeezed in a very casual summer drink version. We usually do this at Christmas, and so we have all perfected our warm drinks, but it was so fun to get to try something new for the refreshing summer drink. This year's winner was watermelon agua fresca, a mexican classic. I think it won the vote on being a super light and very refreshing drink.  You should try it while this summer fruit is at it's prime!

Watermelon Agua Fresca
Ingredients: 
4 cups very ripe watermelon
4 limes, juice of
2-3 tablespoons fresh mint, cut into strips
1-2 tablespoons sugar, honey or agave nectar
light rum (optional)

Intructions:
Combine watermelon and lime juice in a blender and blend until smooth. Cut the fresh mint leaves into think strips. In a mortar and pestle (or glass, if you don't have one) muddle the mint and sugar until it forms a paste.

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and refrigerate for 1-3 hours to let the flavors combine.

Place cheese cloth over a large bowl and pour drink mixture over cheese cloth. The cheese cloth allows all the liquid to strain into the new bowl while removing the grainy-texture and mint leaves. (this step is optional and some prefer to have the pulp and mint. I feel it is more refreshing without it.)

If you are adding rum, add to taste and stir well. 

Garnish with a small piece of watermelon, lime and mint. Serve over ice.

Happy refreshing, friends!
*Jordan