The longer we live in our new home, the more I fall in love with it. And it isn’t all about the house. We are literally surrounded on all sides by people who care about us despite the fact that we have been here only a few months. Some of them have lived in the neighborhood for 20-30 years and knew exactly how to welcome us and make us feel, in the best way possible, like we had been here just as long. The move has been a welcome reminder of how important community is and how we can all take care of our neighbors in small ways each and every day.
Something I’d like to do soon is invite my neighbors over for some grilled pizza and clean, crisp, summery agua fresca. The experience of making food with friends present is truly wonderful. Everyone pitches in and does their part. When this epic gathering occurs, my Watermelon Agua Fresca with Basil is just what we’ll need to keep cool!
Even if you aren’t having a neighborhood bash, this is a wonderful way to stay hydrated this summer. I get SO TIRED OF PLAIN WATER sometimes (first world problems, guys...) and this is perfect for mixing things up without pumping myself up with a bunch of sugar.
This recipe came about because I had a plethora of watermelon in my fridge a while back. So much watermelon. I barely had room for anything else because it just kept appearing! Brad brought some home from work, a friend brought some because she also had too much at her house... And this dreamy drink was born! So, I’m not complaining about all the watermelon. Bring it!
*Notes: You can absolutely leave out the sugar or replace it with agave. Basil leaves are totally optional but not really because they make this something extra special. Mint leaves would be excellent as well. And perhaps a bit of peeled cucumber. Yes. Yes, that would be lovely. Also, try to use seedless watermelon if you can, but if there are seeds, don’t fret! Straining takes care of all the little yucky pieces. Cheers, friends!
Watermelon Agua Fresca with Basil
- 3 cups water
- 3-4 cups cubed watermelon, preferably seedless
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/2 cup loosely packed basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Combine the watermelon, 1 cup of water, lime juice, basil and sugar in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour through a fine sieve, pressing the pulp to get as much of the juice out as possible.
- Pour the strained juice into a pitcher. Add remaining water and stir to combine.
- Serve over ice.