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Refreshing Spiked Watermelon Mint Agua Fresca

spiked watermelon mint agua fresca - featured image

A simple, fresh, and unpretentious summer drink combining juicy watermelon, bright mint, fresh lime juice, and a splash of tequila or vodka for a refreshing and lightly boozy beverage.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (600g) fresh watermelon, cubed and seeds removed
  • 1012 fresh mint leaves, washed
  • Juice of 2 medium limes (about 2 tablespoons or 30ml)
  • 12 tablespoons (15-30ml) agave syrup or simple syrup
  • 1 cup (240ml) cold water
  • Ice cubes, as needed for serving
  • 34 ounces (90-120ml) tequila blanco or vodka (optional)
  • Mint sprigs and lime slices for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cut 4 cups (600g) of fresh watermelon into cubes, removing seeds. Measure and set aside.
  2. Place 10-12 fresh mint leaves into your blender or a sturdy bowl and gently press them with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release oils (about 30 seconds). Do not pulverize; just a gentle press.
  3. Add the watermelon cubes, fresh lime juice (about 2 tablespoons/30ml), and sweetener (1-2 tablespoons/15-30ml agave syrup) to the blender with the muddled mint. Pour in 1 cup (240ml) of cold water. Blend on high for about 1 minute until smooth and vibrant pink.
  4. Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a large pitcher to remove pulp and any mint bits. Use a spoon to press gently to extract maximum juice.
  5. Stir in 3-4 ounces (90-120ml) of tequila blanco or vodka if spiking. Adjust based on your taste and how boozy you want it.
  6. Fill glasses with ice cubes, pour the agua fresca over the ice, and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a lime slice. Serve immediately for best flavor.

Notes

If the mixture feels too thick, add a splash more cold water to loosen. Adjust sweetness carefully as watermelon varies in sweetness. Use fresh lime juice for best flavor. Strain well for a smooth finish. Prepare just before serving to keep mint fresh and flavors vibrant. For a non-alcoholic version, omit the spirit and add sparkling water.

Nutrition

Keywords: watermelon agua fresca, spiked watermelon drink, summer cocktail, mint agua fresca, tequila cocktail, vodka cocktail, refreshing summer drink