Watermelon-Mint Agua Fresca

Name: Watermelon-Mint Agua Fresca
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: For the Mint Simple Syrup:; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup water; 0.5 cup packed fresh mint leaves, plus more for serving; For the Agua Fresca:; 8 cups chopped seedless watermelon (about 2½ lb.); 2 cups water; 0.25 cup fresh lime juice (from 3 limes)

3.5

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Few things are more refreshing on a hot summer day than a slice of chilled watermelon. Except, perhaps, if you blend it, chill it, and sweeten it with a mint-infused syrup. Served over ice with a healthy dose of perky lime juice, this “freshwater” will have you feeling like you just got watered like a plant. You can also make it with honeydew or cantaloupe. Adjust the sweetness to your liking depending on the ripeness of the fruit. Guaranteed to soothe heat-tingling tongues, serve this cooler alongside spicy salsas, tacos, or other chile-smothered dishes.

Robin Bashinsky

Updated on October 2, 2022

Watermelon-Mint Agua Fresca — Photo: Greg DuPree

Hands On Time:

10 mins

Total Time:

45 mins

Yield:

6 serves

Ingredients

For the Mint Simple Syrup:
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup water
½ cup packed fresh mint leaves, plus more for serving
For the Agua Fresca:
8 cups chopped seedless watermelon (about 2½ lb.)
2 cups water
¼ cup fresh lime juice (from 3 limes)

Directions

Combine sugar and water in a saucepan. Cook over high, whisking occasionally, until sugar dissolves, 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat, and add mint. Let stand, uncovered, 15 minutes. Strain into a bowl and discard mint. Chill syrup until ready to use.
Process watermelon in a blender until smooth. Strain into a large pitcher (you should have about 4 cups. If you have more, reserve for another batch); discard solids.
Stir together water, lime juice, 4 cups watermelon juice, and ½ cup syrup in a pitcher. (Reserve remaining Mint Simple Syrup for another use). Serve over ice, and garnish with mint sprigs.