Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca

Name: Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled; 1/4 cup fresh lime juice; 1/4 cup sugar (adjust for sweetness); 4 cups cold water; Ice cubes; Mint leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Inspired World Food Inspiration

I love making Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca during the hot summer months. The combination of fresh strawberries and zesty lime creates a refreshing drink that is both delicious and hydrating. With just a few simple ingredients, this beverage is easy to prepare and perfect for picnics or gatherings. I often serve it over ice with a sprig of mint for a beautiful presentation. It's a delightful way to cool off and enjoy the vibrant flavors of summer.

Created by

Honoria Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:17:36.057Z

My journey with Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca started when I discovered how easy it was to blend fresh ingredients into a smoothie-like drink. The sweetness of strawberries combined with the tartness of lime creates a perfect balance that’s almost addictive. I remember the first time I shared it at a family barbecue; everyone loved it and I was asked to make it again and again!

One crucial tip is to use ripe strawberries for the best flavor. I often taste the strawberries before adding them to ensure they are sweet enough. For a twist, I sometimes include basil along with mint, which adds an aromatic depth that surprises everyone. This drink truly captures the essence of summer for me.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors
Refreshing and hydrating for hot days
Simple to make with just a handful of ingredients

Creating the Perfect Balance

One of the keys to an exceptional Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca is achieving the right balance between sweetness and tartness. Using fresh strawberries ensures a natural sweetness, but depending on their ripeness, you may need to adjust the sugar content. Start with the recommended 1/4 cup, then taste the mixture before serving. If the drink feels too tart, feel free to add a little more sugar until you find that delightful equilibrium.

Lime juice not only adds zest but also enhances the overall flavor profile of the drink. Freshly squeezed lime juice is a must; bottled varieties often contain preservatives that can alter the taste. When juicing limes, roll them on the counter to release the juices more easily, and use a citrus juicer for maximum extraction. The bright acidity from the lime not only elevates the strawberries but also helps create a refreshing drink that tastes even more vibrant.

Tips for Smooth Consistency

If you prefer a smoother agua fresca, straining the mixture is highly recommended. After blending, use a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to separate the pulp from the liquid. Pour the blended contents slowly through the sieve, using a spatula to help push the liquid through. This technique removes the fibrous strawberry bits and ensures that the consistency is silky and easy to drink. However, don’t discard the pulp entirely; it can be incorporated into smoothies or used as a topping for yogurt.

When serving, additional garnishes like mint leaves not only enhance the visual appeal but also contribute to a refreshing aroma as you sip. A sprig of mint can add a surprising twist to the overall taste experience. To release the oils, give the mint leaves a gentle clap between your palms before placing them in your glass. This simple technique amplifies their fragrance, complementing the fruity and zesty flavors of the agua fresca beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make the perfect Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca:

Ingredients

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1/4 cup sugar (adjust for sweetness)
4 cups cold water
Ice cubes
Mint leaves for garnish

Mix these ingredients for a delicious summer drink!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca:

Blend Ingredients

In a blender, combine the hulled strawberries, lime juice, and sugar. Blend until smooth.

Add Water

Pour the blended mixture into a pitcher and add the cold water. Stir well to combine.

Strain (Optional)

If you prefer a smoother drink, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the pulp.

Serve

Serve the agua fresca over ice and garnish with mint leaves. Enjoy immediately!

Your refreshing Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, try adding a splash of club soda before serving for some fizz!

Making Ahead and Storage

This Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca is an excellent make-ahead option, making it perfect for gatherings. You can prepare the blended mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving. Just remember to give it a good stir before pouring over ice, as the ingredients may separate over time. This is a great way to infuse flavor if made in advance, as the strawberries and lime will meld beautifully while chilling.

If you want to plan even further ahead, consider freezing a portion of the drink. Pour it into ice cube trays to create flavorful ice cubes. These can be added to your fresh batch right before serving, enhancing the strawberry and lime flavors while keeping your drink cool without diluting it. This tip is particularly handy for those hot summer days when serving guests and keeping the drink chilled is essential.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different fruit combinations for unique spins on this classic drink. For instance, adding watermelon or cucumber can enhance the refreshing nature of the agua fresca. A half-cup of diced watermelon blended along with the strawberries adds an ultra-refreshing sweetness, perfect for those scorching days. Each fruit brings its own character, so have fun finding your favorite blend.

For a sparkling twist, consider replacing half of the cold water with sparkling water or club soda. This adds a delightful fizz to each sip, making it a fun, party-ready version. Just remember to add the sparkling water right before serving to retain the bubbles, and gently stir to combine. Garnishing with citrus slices or even edible flowers can elevate the drink for special occasions, impressing your guests with visually stunning presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well, but use less ice to keep the consistency right.

→ How long can I store this drink?

It's best served fresh, but it can be refrigerated for 1-2 days.

→ Can I substitute other fruits?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with other fruits like watermelon or mango for different flavor profiles.

→ Is it possible to make this drink sugar-free?

Yes, you can use a sugar substitute or reduce the amount of sugar to your taste.