August Agua Fresca
Source: Naomi Webb, Foodwise Staff
Recipe Type: Drinks | Seasons: Summer
This agua fresca highlights the versatility of the cucurbit family—think melons, cucumbers, or even zucchini—blended with citrus, fresh herbs, and just the right amount of sweetness. It’s endlessly customizable: try watermelon with mint, cantaloupe with basil, or cucumber with thyme and lime. If using zucchini, peel it first to mellow the flavor and add a bit of extra citrus juice to brighten it up!
This recipe showcases cucurbits (the plant family that includes melons, squashes, and cucumbers) as a part of Foodwise’s Seasonal Spotlight program, which shines a light on the best produce that California farms have to offer at our farmers markets. Join us for free samples, cooking demos, and festivals to celebrate a different peak-season produce item each month. See upcoming events.
Serves 6 to 8
INGREDIENTS
4 cups cucurbit of your choice (melon, cucumber, even zucchini!)
½ cup sugar
3 cups water
¼ to ½ cup citrus juice
A few sprigs fresh herbs (mint, basil, or thyme work beautifully)
Pinch of salt
3 cups ice
PREPARATION
- In a blender, combine cucurbits, sugar, 1 cup water, and a few herb leaves.
- Blend until smooth, then strain with a mesh strainer.
- Stir in the remaining 2 cups of water, citrus juice, and a pinch of salt.
- Chill and serve over ice.
- Garnish with extra herbs.
