In the blazing heat of summer, when the sun is high and the sweat is pouring, turn to a cool refreshing glass of aguas frescas, a delicious way to stay hydrated. Aguas frescas are simply a sweetened fruit & lime water beverage often found in taquerias, but this version is healthier, low-glycemic, and more refreshing than the sugary drinks you’ll find in those big gallon containers.
In this recipe, I use blended strawberries for natural flavor and vitamins, fresh squeezed lime for a balanced tang, and light agave nectar as a low-glycemic sweetener. The star of the show, however, is using sparkling mineral water (I prefer Topo Chico, but others work as well). The sparkling water elevates all the other flavors to another level, and allows you to use less sweetener as the fizzy beverage hits your nose and tongue. Yes, you can use regular water, but try it with some Topo Chico, and your tastebuds will thank me later.
Sparkling Strawberry Aguas Frescas
Equipment
- Blender or food processor
- measuring cups
- paring knife
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled, (6 oz.) hulled = green tops cut off
- 1 lime, juiced , (or 3 tbsp lime juice)
- 2 tsp light agave nectar
- 2 cups Topo Chico or other sparkling water
Instructions
- Hull the strawberries and put them in your blender or food processor.
- Add the lime juice to the blender, making sure it doesn't include seeds.
- Blend for 2 minutes or until you have a smooth strawberry purée. Taste for sweetness and tartness.
- Add agave nectar to adjust according to your taste, and blend again for about 10 seconds. Depending on the sweetness of the fruit, you may need to add more or less sweetener.
- Distribute purée into two iced glasses and add up to 1 cup of sparkling water, stirring to incorporate. Serve immediately.
