Watermelon-Basil Agua Fresca is a simple, refreshing summer drink that combines the sweetness of watermelon with the fresh, herbal flavor of basil and a splash of lime juice. It’s the perfect way to stay hydrated on a hot day. You can easily make this drink in under 5 minutes with just a few ingredients, and it’s naturally sweetened with agave syrup for a healthier alternative to sugary beverages. Serve it over ice for an extra refreshing experience, or store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.
This Watermelon-Basil Agua Fresca is a light, refreshing summer drink that combines the sweetness of watermelon with the fresh, herbal flavor of basil. It’s the perfect thirst-quencher on a hot day.
INGREDIENTS
- Watermelon: 2 cups cubed, providing natural sweetness and hydration.
- Water: 1 cup, helps blend the watermelon and creates a smooth, drinkable texture.
- Lime Juice: Juice of 1/2 lime, adds a touch of tartness to balance the sweetness.
- Agave Syrup: 2 teaspoons, for a natural sweetness without being overpowering.
- Fresh Basil: 1 teaspoon, chopped, adds a subtle herbal flavor that pairs beautifully with the watermelon.
- Ice: For serving, keeps the drink chilled and refreshing.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a blender, combine the cubed watermelon, water, lime juice, agave syrup, and chopped basil.
- Step 2:
- Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined.
- Step 3:
- Taste the agua fresca and adjust sweetness by adding more agave syrup if desired.
- Step 4:
- Serve the drink over ice in tall glasses for a chilled and refreshing experience.
- Step 5:
- Optionally, garnish with a small basil leaf or a slice of lime for presentation.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the Watermelon-Basil Agua Fresca over ice for maximum refreshment on a hot day.
- Garnish each glass with a fresh basil leaf or a lime wedge to enhance the presentation.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir or shake well before serving again.
Helpful Notes
- For a more intense basil flavor, add a few extra leaves to the blender when processing the drink.
- If you prefer a sweeter drink, adjust the amount of agave syrup to your liking.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Ina Garten recommends adding a splash of sparkling water to the drink just before serving for a fizzy twist.
- Chef Yotam Ottolenghi suggests freezing the watermelon cubes in advance to create an extra-chilled drink without diluting the flavor with ice.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- This refreshing drink is naturally sweetened and hydrating, making it the perfect beverage for a hot day.
- The combination of watermelon and basil creates a unique and fresh flavor that’s hard to resist.
- It’s quick and easy to prepare, taking less than 5 minutes to make.
VARIATIONS
- Swap the basil for fresh mint or cilantro for a different herbal twist.
- Use sparkling water instead of still water for a fizzy version of this drink.
- Add a splash of tequila or rum to create a refreshing summer cocktail.