Fresh Cucumber Basil Agua Fresca
A simple, refreshing summer drink combining crisp cucumber, fragrant basil, and zesty lime for a light and hydrating beverage perfect for gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium English cucumbers, peeled and chopped
- 10 to 12 fresh basil leaves, washed
- Juice of 2 fresh limes (about 3 tablespoons)
- 4 cups (32 fl oz) cold filtered water
- 2 to 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, honey, or agave syrup (adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes for serving
Instructions
- Peel the cucumbers to remove the waxy skin, then chop into 1-inch pieces. Wash and pat dry the basil leaves.
- Add chopped cucumber, basil leaves, lime juice, sweetener, and 2 cups (16 fl oz) of cold water to a blender. Blend on high for 1 to 2 minutes until smooth and fragrant.
- Strain the blended mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl or pitcher, pressing to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Stir in the remaining 2 cups (16 fl oz) of cold water to dilute to taste. Adjust sweetness or lime juice if needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill and allow flavors to meld.
- Serve over ice cubes in tall glasses, garnished with fresh basil or a thin cucumber slice.
Notes
Use fresh lime juice for best flavor. Straining improves texture for a silky finish. Adjust sweetness gradually. For a fizzy twist, replace half the water with sparkling water before serving. Adding crushed ice to the blender creates a slushier drink. Keep refrigerated and consume within 24 hours for best freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (8 fl oz)
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 10
- Sodium: 5
- Carbohydrates: 13
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 1
Keywords: agua fresca, cucumber drink, basil drink, summer beverage, refreshing drink, lime, hydrating drink, easy recipe