Escape the summer heat with this incredibly simple and refreshing Cucumber Agua Fresca recipe! This homemade beverage is the perfect healthy and delicious alternative to sugary sodas and juices. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time. Whether you're looking for a quick dinner idea to complement your healthy meal or just a thirst-quenching treat, this Cucumber Agua Fresca is the perfect solution. Get ready to experience the cool, crisp, and subtly sweet taste of summer in a glass!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups peeled and thinly sliced cucumbers (about 2 large cucumbers)
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 3-4 limes)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup sugar or honey (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a blender, combine the sliced cucumbers, lime juice, water, sugar (or honey), and salt.
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Blend Until Smooth: Blend until the mixture is completely smooth. For a truly refreshing drink, use a high-speed blender to ensure a fine texture.
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Strain (Optional): For a smoother, seed-free drink, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a pitcher. This step is optional but highly recommended for a more refined texture.
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Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the Agua Fresca for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the drink to chill thoroughly. Serve over ice, garnished with fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of freshness.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cucumber Agua Fresca:
- Cucumber Selection: Choose firm, crisp cucumbers for the best flavor. Avoid cucumbers that are soft or have blemishes.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sugar or honey according to your preference. You can start with less and add more to taste. Honey offers a more complex sweetness.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is always best for the brightest and most vibrant flavor.
- Ice Cubes: Use plenty of ice to keep your Agua Fresca perfectly chilled. Consider using large ice cubes or ice spheres to slow down the melting process.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili powder or a few slices of jalapeño to the blender for a spicy twist.
- Herby Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or basil in addition to or instead of mint.
- Fruity Fusion: Add other fruits like strawberries or watermelon for a more complex flavor profile. Blend them in with the cucumbers.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a recipe using sugar and assumes the recipe makes approximately 6 servings. Nutritional content will vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used.
- Calories: Approximately 80-100
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
- Sugar: Approximately 15-20g
- Fat: Negligible
- Protein: Negligible
This easy recipe offers a refreshing and healthy alternative to sugary drinks. Perfect for hot days, parties, or simply a healthy and delicious treat anytime! Enjoy your homemade Cucumber Agua Fresca!