Agua fresca is one of my most favorite drinks. Refreshing and light, and the perfect partner for spicy Mexican food.  To combat the heat, they tend to be quite sweet, but I made mine a little on the drier side so it can be enjoyed ala carte. With the mint and jalapeño, it’s a sweet and spicy combination you’ll drink by the gallon, so be prepared to make A LOT. Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS

2 cups cold water

2 cups watermelon (rind removed), seeded and chopped

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

juice of 1/2 lime (no more than 1 tablespoon) 

1/4 cup mint leaves

1/2 jalapeño, roughly chopped

Ice cubes or crushed ice (optional)

DIRECTIONS

Combine all of the ingredients and puree until smooth. Pour mixture through a strainer into a pitcher, forcing through most of the pulp. Chill and serve.