There is nothing quite as invigorating on a warm day as a tall glass of Refreshing Mango Strawberry Agua Fresca: A Summer Delight Recipe. This vibrant drink combines the luscious sweetness of ripe mangoes with the bright, tangy notes of fresh strawberries, gently balanced by a hint of lime and a whisper of sea salt. It’s an effortless fusion of tropical flavors that awakens your senses and cools you down, all while being delightfully hydrating and natural. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a sunny backyard gathering, this agua fresca is going to be your new best friend for flavorful refreshment.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: just a handful of fresh, wholesome ingredients that work together harmoniously to deliver vibrant color, rich texture, and that unmistakable fresh fruit flavor that makes this drink so special.
- 2 ripe mangoes (Ataulfo or Alphonso recommended): These varieties offer unmatched sweetness and buttery texture that elevate your agua fresca.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries: Their natural tartness and ruby-red hue bring brightness and visual appeal.
- 4 cups filtered water (divided): Essential for creating that perfect, drinkable consistency without diluting flavor.
- Agave nectar or simple syrup (to taste, optional): A gentle sweetener that enhances natural fruit sugars without overpowering.
- Juice of 1 fresh lime: Adds a zesty citrus kick that balances sweetness beautifully.
- Pinch of fine sea salt (optional): Elevates flavors and adds a subtle depth to the drink.
How to Make Refreshing Mango Strawberry Agua Fresca: A Summer Delight Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Fruits
Start by giving the strawberries a refreshing rinse under cool, running water, then carefully hull them to remove the green leafy tops. For the mangoes, peel away the skin with a vegetable peeler or sharp knife, then slice the fruit off the pit and chop into roughly one-inch cubes. Getting your mango and strawberry prepped properly is the foundation for the best possible flavor and smoothness in your agua fresca.
Step 2: Blend the Fruits
Transfer your mango and strawberry chunks into a high-speed blender. Pour in half of the filtered water along with the fresh lime juice, your optional sweetener, and that pinch of sea salt if using. Securing the lid tightly, blend everything on high until the mixture is silky and lump-free. This step is where your mixture transforms into a beautifully harmonious, vibrant gem.
Step 3: Strain the Mixture
Once blended, place a fine-mesh sieve over a large pitcher or bowl. Pour the fruit mixture through the sieve slowly, using the back of a spoon or rubber spatula to press down on the pulp. The goal is to extract as much juice as possible while leaving behind seeds and fibrous bits. This creates a smooth, luscious texture that makes every sip feel refreshingly light and pure.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Give your strained agua fresca a thorough stir, then pour a small glassful for tasting. This is your moment to fine-tune the balance — add more agave nectar if you like a sweeter sip or fresh lime juice if you crave a bit more zing. Balance is key to bringing out the best in each ingredient.
Step 5: Dilute and Chill
Slowly stir in the remaining filtered water to reach the perfect consistency and flavor strength that feels just right for you. Transfer the finished mixture to a serving pitcher and pop it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld and ensures the drink is gratifyingly cool when it’s time to enjoy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Before serving, fill glasses with plenty of ice and pour your chilled Refreshing Mango Strawberry Agua Fresca: A Summer Delight Recipe right over it. Add a festive touch by garnishing with fresh strawberry slices, mango cubes, or even aromatic sprigs of mint or basil. This is when your creation truly shines, looking as inviting as it tastes.
How to Serve Refreshing Mango Strawberry Agua Fresca: A Summer Delight Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes bring your agua fresca to life. Bright red strawberry slices balanced atop the rim, juicy mango cubes speared on a cocktail stick, or fresh fragrant mint or basil leaves add delightful pops of color and aroma, turning every glass into a mini celebration of summer flavors.
Side Dishes
This drink pairs beautifully with light, fresh fare such as grilled fish tacos, crisp garden salads, or citrusy shrimp ceviche. The fruity acidity and sweetness of the agua fresca complement savory and spicy dishes especially well, balancing heat and enhancing every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful touch, serve your Refreshing Mango Strawberry Agua Fresca: A Summer Delight Recipe in mason jars or clear glasses to showcase its vibrant coral hue. Add colorful paper straws or edible flowers for a whimsical vibe, or freeze small fruit pieces into ice cubes that slowly release bursts of flavor as they melt.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any agua fresca left, store it in a sealed glass container in the refrigerator. Because this recipe is fresh and free from preservatives, aim to consume it within 2 days for the best taste and quality. Give it a gentle stir before serving again since natural settling can occur.
Freezing
You can freeze Refreshing Mango Strawberry Agua Fresca: A Summer Delight Recipe in ice cube trays to keep the flavors for longer. These frozen cubes are perfect for chilling other drinks or adding bursts of fruity flavor to summer cocktails. Just avoid freezing large quantities at once to prevent texture loss upon thawing.
Reheating
This agua fresca is best enjoyed cold and should never be heated. If you want a warm beverage, consider trying a separate recipe, but for this one, icy cold is where it shines the brightest.
FAQs
Can I use frozen mangoes and strawberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen fruits work well in this recipe and can sometimes yield a thicker, more refreshing texture. Just thaw a bit to allow easier blending and strain as usual to remove any icy bits you don’t want in your agua fresca.
Is there a substitute for agave nectar or simple syrup?
Yes! You can sweeten your agua fresca with honey, maple syrup, or even a natural stevia blend. Start with a small amount to avoid overpowering the fresh fruit flavors and adjust to taste.
Can I make this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
This Refreshing Mango Strawberry Agua Fresca: A Summer Delight Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it an inclusive choice for many dietary needs. Just be sure your sweetener choice aligns with your preferences.
How can I make this drink less sweet?
Simply reduce or omit the added sweetener and rely on the natural sweetness of the ripe mangoes and strawberries. Lime juice and the pinch of salt help balance flavors, so play around to find your perfect refreshing profile.
What’s the best way to choose mangoes for this recipe?
Look for mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch and emit a fragrant, sweet aroma. Ataulfo and Alphonso varieties are ideal because of their creamy texture and rich sweetness, but any ripe mango will work if these are not available.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—your new go-to for sunny days, picnics, or anytime you crave a burst of fresh fruit joy. The Refreshing Mango Strawberry Agua Fresca: A Summer Delight Recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels special and indulgent without any fuss. So grab your blender, pick your favorite mangoes and strawberries, and dive into this delicious, refreshing summer treat that I truly believe will brighten your day.
Print
Refreshing Mango Strawberry Agua Fresca: A Summer Delight Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Refreshing Mango Strawberry Agua Fresca is a perfect summer beverage combining the natural sweetness of ripe mangoes and fresh strawberries, balanced with lime juice and a hint of sweetness. Light, hydrating, and easy to make, this fruity agua fresca is ideal for cooling down on hot days or serving at gatherings.
Ingredients
Fruits
- 2 ripe mangoes (Ataulfo or Alphonso recommended)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries
Liquids & Flavorings
- 4 cups filtered water (divided)
- Agave nectar or simple syrup (to taste, optional)
- Juice of 1 fresh lime
Seasoning
- Pinch of fine sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the strawberries: Rinse the strawberries thoroughly under cool water and remove their green tops (hulled).
- Prepare the mangoes: Peel the mangoes carefully using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife. Slice the flesh away from the pit and dice it into roughly 1-inch chunks.
- Combine fruits in blender: Place the prepared mango and strawberry chunks into a high-speed blender.
- Add liquids and sweetener: Pour in about half of the filtered water, add your preferred sweetener if using, and pour in the fresh lime juice. Add a pinch of fine sea salt if desired.
- Blend until smooth: Secure the blender lid and blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth, ensuring no large fruit chunks remain.
- Strain the mixture: Place a fine-mesh sieve over a large pitcher or bowl and carefully pour the blended mixture through it.
- Extract the juice: Use the back of a spoon or rubber spatula to press down on the solids in the sieve, extracting as much liquid as possible. Discard the remaining pulp and seeds.
- Adjust flavor: Stir the strained juice and pour a small amount into a glass for tasting. Adjust sweetness with additional sweetener or add more lime juice as desired.
- Dilute with remaining water: Gradually stir in the remaining filtered water until you reach your preferred consistency and flavor balance.
- Chill the agua fresca: Transfer the drink to a serving pitcher and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavors and serve well-cooled.
- Serve: Fill glasses with ice and pour the chilled mango strawberry agua fresca over the ice cubes. Garnish with a slice of fresh strawberry, a mango cube, or a sprig of mint or basil if desired.
Notes
- Use ripe Ataulfo or Alphonso mangoes for the best sweetness and flavor.
- The sweetness level can be easily adjusted by adding agave nectar or simple syrup to taste.
- Straining the blended fruit ensures a smooth, pulp-free beverage.
- If you prefer a thicker texture, you can skip straining and enjoy it as a smoothie-like drink.
- The agua fresca is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
- Garnishing with fresh herbs like mint or basil adds a refreshing aroma.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
