08/14

Aquas Frescas

Popular in Mexico, Central America and here in the States, Aguas Frescas are a vibrant and incredibly delicious cup of Latino culture. They also happen to be one of my favorite beverages.

If you’ve been to a taco stand, I’m pretty sure you’ve seen the large glass jars filled with brilliantly colored liquid by the front counter.  If you haven’t tried them yet, you definitely should.  Soda – bad.  Yummy drink made out of fresh fruit, grain (rice) or flowers – good. Really good!!

(PS – If you’re searching for an amazing place for tacos, head to Tacombi at Fonda Nolita in New York. It has a great atmosphere and they literally serve tacos from a converted VW bus in the middle of the restaurant.)

What rings my bell the most about aguas is that they are delicious and made out of almost nothing. A giant pitcher can be whipped up by a few pieces of fruit and water (if needed a touch of sweetener).

You can make aquas frescas with SO many different types of fruit, too!  Some of my favorites are cantaloupe, honeydew and my most favorite watermelon (sandia).  Aguas couldn’t be more versatile.  They are absolute perfection on their own but could be mixed with sparkling water or club soda.  Aguas frescas are also perfectly suited to go along with some vodka for cocktail hour.  You should definitely drag out your blender and give this recipe a whirl.

Aqua Fresca:  Watermelon Mint

• 3 cups (approximately) of cubed watermelon
• 8-10 leaves Fresh mint
• 1-½ cups of water
• 1 Tablespoon of honey or natural sweetener of your choice. (Not sure about what sweetener to choose?  Check out my post on how to make healthy sweeteners.)

This recipe couldn’t be easier or incredibly quick to make.

• Toss the watermelon, mint and water into the blender then hit the button!
• Blend until smooth.
• Sweeten to taste. It is that easy!!

Like my blender?  My Vitamix never lets me down! This beverage stand from Home Essentials would be a perfect way to display and serve your aqua fresca.  Or check out this incredibly cute Beehive drink dispenser  If it’s glasses you are looking for, these monogrammed drinking jars could be right up your alley.