A refreshing, hydrating, and naturally delicious beverage, Cucumber Lime Agua Fresca is the perfect drink for hot days. Made with fresh cucumbers, zesty lime juice, and a touch of sweetness, this drink is light, cooling, and full of natural flavors. It’s an excellent alternative to sugary sodas and processed drinks, offering a healthy and revitalizing way to stay hydrated.

Whether you're serving it at a summer gathering, enjoying it after a workout, or simply looking for a tasty way to drink more water, this Mexican-inspired agua fresca is an easy and delightful choice.

Ingredients

• 2 cucumbers, peeled, seedless, and cut into small cubes

• 5 tablespoons of sugar (adjust based on your sweetness preference)

• 4 limes, juiced (about ½ cup of fresh lime juice)

• 1 liter (4 cups) of cold water

• 2 cups of ice

• Optional: Fresh mint leaves for garnish, cucumber slices for decoration

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing, peeling, and deseeding the cucumbers. Cutting them into smaller chunks will make blending easier. If your cucumbers have very thin skin, you can leave some of it on for added fiber and a slight green color.

Cut the limes in half and squeeze out the juice using a citrus juicer or by hand. Strain the juice to remove any seeds. If you want a slightly tangier drink, you can add more lime juice later.

Step 2: Blend the Mixture

In a blender, combine:

• The chopped cucumbers

• Freshly squeezed lime juice

• 2 cups of water

• Sugar

Blend for 30–60 seconds until you get a smooth, bright green liquid. The longer you blend, the finer the consistency.

Step 3: Strain for a Smoother Texture (Optional)

If you prefer a smooth and clear agua fresca, pour the blended mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large pitcher. This will remove any pulp and give you a more refined drink. However, if you enjoy a more natural texture with fiber, you can skip this step.

Step 4: Mix and Chill

Add the remaining 2 cups of water to the pitcher and stir well. Taste and adjust:

• If you want it sweeter, add more sugar.

• If it's too sweet, add more water or a splash of extra lime juice.

Add ice cubes to the pitcher or directly into serving glasses to chill the drink instantly.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Pour the agua fresca into tall glasses over ice. To make it extra refreshing and visually appealing, garnish with:

• A slice of cucumber on the rim of the glass

• A sprig of fresh mint

• A thin lime wheel

Step 6: Enjoy!

Take a sip and enjoy the crisp, cool flavors of cucumber combined with the bright, citrusy taste of lime. It’s an instant refresher that helps you stay hydrated and feel revitalized.

Tips & Variations

• Adjust Sweetness Naturally: Instead of sugar, try honey, agave syrup, or a sugar substitute. You can also omit the sweetener entirely if you prefer a more natural taste.

• Make It Sparkling: Replace half of the water with sparkling water for a fizzy twist.

• Infuse More Flavor: Add a few sprigs of mint or basil to the blender for a herbal touch.

• Add a Tropical Twist: Blend in pineapple, coconut water, or watermelon for extra natural sweetness.

• Serve It Frozen: Freeze the agua fresca in ice cube trays and blend it into a slushie for a fun summer treat.

Health Benefits of Cucumber Lime Agua Fresca

Not only is this drink delicious and easy to make, but it’s also incredibly healthy:

• Hydrating: Cucumbers are 95% water, making this drink a great way to replenish fluids.

• Rich in Antioxidants: Both cucumbers and limes contain vitamin C and other antioxidants that support your immune system.

• Low in Calories: Unlike sugary sodas and juices, this agua fresca is light and refreshing with minimal calories.

• Supports Digestion: Lime juice helps with digestion and detoxification, while cucumber is gentle on the stomach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Agua Fresca Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and stir well before serving.

How Long Does It Last?

Homemade agua fresca is best enjoyed the same day, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavor may change slightly over time, so fresh is always best!

Can I Use Lemon Instead of Lime?

Yes! While limes give a more traditional Mexican agua fresca flavor, lemons work just as well and offer a slightly sweeter citrus taste.

Is This Recipe Vegan and Gluten-Free?

Absolutely! This recipe contains no dairy, gluten, or animal products, making it suitable for almost all diets.

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Final Thoughts

Cucumber Lime Agua Fresca is a simple yet refreshing drink that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a sunny day, looking for a healthy alternative to sugary drinks, or simply need a cooling beverage, this recipe is a must-try.

Make a large pitcher, share it with friends and family, and stay hydrated in the most delicious way possible! 🥒🍋💦