If you need some relief from the heat, this watermelon coconut agua fresca is just the thing. Incredibly easy to make, no added sugar and wonderfully refreshing, you'll be sipping it whenever you can.
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This summer we've been drinking our fruit much more than usual. My watermelon lemonade was a hit with everyone instantly and I've kept thinking about other ideas, both family-friendly options and cocktails.
Maybe it's partly the heat - we've definitely been in need of refreshing drinks recently.
I instantly loved the pineapple daiquiri I made (and it was apparently popular with you, too), and the Pimm's mojito was dangerously refreshing too. But I couldn't let summer go by without at least one more.
A couple of things sparked this drink. First, I tried some really good coconut water at the Fancy Food Show that I went to at the end of June. Then I had a watermelon coconut cocktail out at a local restaurant not so long ago.
Both prompted me to combine watermelon and coconut water in some way, and this is the perfect place to start.
What is an agua fresca?
An agua fresca is a light drink that's popular in Mexico. It's typically a combination of one or more fruit, water and a little sugar to sweeten, although it depends on the fruit.
Common versions are melon (like the cantaloupe agua fresca I made), strawberry, lemon and cucumber agua fresca. You can also make them with non-fruit bases like hibiscus and tamarind.
How to make this watermelon coconut drink
This comes together in mere minutes as all you do is:
- dice watermelon
- put watermelon, coconut water and mint in blender
- blend until smooth
- strain into glasses with ice.
In fairness, the mint doesn't come through particularly strongly, so if you prefer you can muddle some at the bottom of the glasses as well, that may bring it out more. You could also add a little mint-infused simple syrup if you prefer it sweeter.
I guess it's also questionable whether it's truly an agua fresca being made with coconut water rather than water, but it definitely fits the "fresh water" name either way.
And neither me nor the taste-taster that was stalking me as I took photos was complaining (excuse his grubby hands, he'd just come in from digging in the dirt - he has a sixth sense when it's a good time to come in he might get something).
This watermelon coconut agua fresca is super easy to make, and wonderfully refreshing to drink. It's bright, light, and just the thing for a warm day.
Try these other refreshing summer drinks:
- Papaya lemonade
- Agua de jamaica (hibiscus tea - enjoy both cold or warm)
- Mango lassi (a super simple smoothie)
- Plus get more inspiration in the drinks recipes archives.
Watermelon coconut agua fresca
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups watermelon red flesh only, diced
- 1 cup coconut water
- 2 mint leaves
Instructions
- Put everything in a blender and blend until well broken up. Strain in to 2 glasses with a few ice cubes in each.
Notes
Nutrition
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Tam
Wondering what alcohol would go nice in this? Maybe tequila or vodka?
Caroline's Cooking
Yes I'd agree tequila would probably be my choice, and vodka doesn't really impact flavor that much so would no doubt work fine as well.
Hannah K
This recipe sounds amazing! How long do you think this will keep in the fridge? I’m thinking about making this drink for my pre-workout! It would be awesome if it could keep a few days! Thanks!
Caroline's Cooking
Glad you like the sound of it, it really is refreshing and tasty! I'd think it should keep a couple days certainly, you will just probably want to give it a gentle stir or shake before pouring as the watermelon may have some slightly thicker solids that settle out that you'll want to mix back through. Enjoy!
Sondria
This sounds so refreshing. Just in time for National watermelon day, I can't wait to make this.
Caroline's Cooking
You know, I hadn't been thinking about that but true! I'd take any excuse 😉
Lisa Bryan
Watermelon is the best for these hot summer days. And you can't go wrong with agua fresca!
Caroline's Cooking
Thanks, and I agree on both fronts!
Morgan Eisenberg
I love the watermelon coconut combo! This looks so refreshing. And your taste-tester is adorable, "grubby" hands and all 🙂
Caroline's Cooking
Thanks, it really is a great combination. And thanks on my taste tester - he loves his dirt 🙂
Tisha
Watermelons have been so great this year! I can't wait to make this!!
Caroline's Cooking
I agree, we've been having it a lot! This is a great way to enjoy some.
Katie | Healthy Seasonal Recipes
This looks like the most refreshing drink for a hot summer day!
Caroline's Cooking
Thanks, it really is!