If you are searching for a drink that perfectly captures the essence of sunshine and summer joy, this Refreshing Mango Strawberry Agua Fresca: A Summer Delight Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with natural sweetness from juicy mangoes and vibrant strawberries, balanced by a zesty hint of lime and a whisper of sea salt, this agua fresca is a celebration of fresh flavors in every sip. It’s light, effortlessly hydrating, and wonderfully simple to make—guaranteed to become your go-to beverage for warm days and gatherings with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering quality, fresh ingredients is key to crafting the perfect agua fresca. Each item here plays an essential role, whether it’s lending natural sweetness, a vibrant color, or refreshing tartness to make your drink truly sing.
- 2 ripe mangoes (Ataulfo or Alphonso recommended): Their creamy texture and intense sweetness provide the star flavor and luscious body of the drink.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries: Full of bright color and a lovely tartness that perfectly complements the mangoes.
- 4 cups filtered water (divided): Keeps the consistency light and refreshing without diluting the natural fruit flavors.
- Agave nectar or simple syrup (to taste, optional): Adds a touch of customizable sweetness if your mangoes and strawberries aren’t quite ripe enough.
- Juice of 1 fresh lime: Injects zesty brightness to balance the sweetness and elevate the overall flavor profile.
- Pinch of fine sea salt (optional): Enhances the fruit flavors and adds depth, turning a simple drink into a memorable treat.
How to Make Refreshing Mango Strawberry Agua Fresca: A Summer Delight Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the fruits
Start by rinsing the strawberries thoroughly under cool water, then hull them to remove the green tops. For your mangoes, peel with care using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife, slicing the flesh away from the pit. Dice both fruits into roughly 1-inch chunks to ensure smooth blending.
Step 2: Blend the base mixture
Transfer your diced mango and strawberries into a high-speed blender. Add half of the filtered water, the juice from one fresh lime, and if you like, a splash of agave nectar or simple syrup to sweeten. Don’t forget to toss in a pinch of sea salt if you’re using it—this little addition makes all the flavors pop.
Step 3: Blend until smooth
Secure the blender lid and puree the mixture at high speed until completely smooth. You want no large chunks left so every sip is silky and refreshing.
Step 4: Strain the mixture
Place a fine-mesh sieve over a large pitcher or bowl and pour the blended fruit liquid through it. Use the back of a spoon or rubber spatula to press down the solids, extracting every drop of that luscious juice. Discard the remaining pulp and seeds for a perfectly smooth bebida.
Step 5: Adjust and dilute
Give your strained agua fresca a good stir and taste a small sample. Sweeten further with agave nectar or syrup if needed, or add a splash more lime juice for extra zing. Slowly fold in the remaining filtered water to hit your desired balance of flavor and refreshment.
Step 6: Chill and serve
Pop your agua fresca into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. When serving, fill glasses with plenty of ice and pour your chilled Refreshing Mango Strawberry Agua Fresca: A Summer Delight Recipe over the cubes for a cooling, thirst-quenching drink.
How to Serve Refreshing Mango Strawberry Agua Fresca: A Summer Delight Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing elevates this agua fresca like thoughtful garnishes. Fresh strawberry slices, mango cubes, or a sprig of bright mint or basil add an inviting visual appeal and an extra layer of aroma. These accents make your presentation pop and add a special touch to your drink.
Side Dishes
This drink pairs beautifully with light, fresh foods that enhance its summery vibe. Think crunchy grilled shrimp skewers, fresh ceviche, or a crisp garden salad with citrus dressing. Its subtle sweetness and acidity cut through savory flavors and keep your palate excited.
Creative Ways to Present
To give your guests an extra “wow”, serve the Refreshing Mango Strawberry Agua Fresca: A Summer Delight Recipe in chilled mason jars or tall glasses with colorful reusable straws. You can also freeze some mango or strawberry chunks as ice cubes to keep the drink cool without watering it down.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This agua fresca tastes best fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Give it a gentle stir before serving, as some separation may occur naturally.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this fresh concoction, do so in an ice cube tray. These fruit-infused cubes are perfect for adding to plain sparkling water on hot days or blending into smoothies later.
Reheating
Since this is a cold beverage, reheating is not recommended. Serve it chilled or over ice for the ultimate refreshing experience.
FAQs
Can I use frozen mangoes and strawberries?
Absolutely! Frozen fruit works well, especially when fresh options are out of season. Just use slightly less water to account for the extra liquid released when thawing.
What if I don’t have agave nectar or simple syrup?
No problem! You can sweeten with honey, maple syrup, or even a bit of regular sugar. Adjust to taste, keeping in mind that the natural fruit sweetness should still shine through.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes! It’s naturally sweet and packed with fruit, making it a healthier alternative to sugary sodas. Just be mindful if you add any sweeteners and adjust accordingly.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Definitely. The ingredients are all plant-based, and using agave or simple syrup keeps it vegan-friendly.
How long does it take to prepare?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes from start to finish, including blending and chilling time. Perfect for a quick refreshing boost anytime.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a drink that’s as vivid in flavor as it is in color, and this Refreshing Mango Strawberry Agua Fresca: A Summer Delight Recipe hits that mark every time. It’s simple, fresh, and utterly thirst-quenching—ideal for cooling down on hot days or impressing friends at your next get-together. Give it a try and let your taste buds soak up the sunshine!
Print
Refreshing Mango Strawberry Agua Fresca: A Summer Delight Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Refreshing Mango Strawberry Agua Fresca is a vibrant and fruity summer beverage that combines ripe mangoes and fresh strawberries blended with lime juice and sweetened lightly with agave nectar. Perfectly chilled and strained for a smooth finish, this agua fresca delivers a naturally sweet and tangy flavor, ideal for hot days or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Fruits
- 2 ripe mangoes (Ataulfo or Alphonso recommended)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries
- Juice of 1 fresh lime
Liquids
- 4 cups filtered water (divided)
- Agave nectar or simple syrup (to taste, optional)
Seasoning
- Pinch of fine sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the strawberries: Rinse the strawberries thoroughly under cool water, then hull them by removing the green tops to ensure they’re clean and ready for blending.
- Prepare the mangoes: Carefully peel the mangoes using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife. Slice the flesh away from the pit and chop into roughly 1-inch chunks for easier blending.
- Combine fruits in blender: Place the diced mango and hulled strawberries into a high-speed blender.
- Add liquids and flavorings: Pour in half of the filtered water, add your choice of sweetener if using, squeeze in fresh lime juice, and sprinkle a pinch of sea salt if desired to enhance the flavors.
- Blend until smooth: Secure the blender lid and blend on high speed until the mixture becomes completely smooth with no large fruit pieces visible.
- Strain the mixture: Place a fine-mesh sieve over a large pitcher or bowl and pour the blended fruit mixture through it to remove pulp and seeds.
- Extract maximum juice: Use the back of a spoon or a rubber spatula to press down on the solids in the sieve, extracting as much liquid as possible, then discard the remaining pulp.
- Taste test and adjust: Stir the strained agua fresca and pour a little into a glass to taste; adjust sweetness or acidity by adding more sweetener or lime juice as preferred.
- Finish the mixture: Gradually stir in the remaining filtered water until you achieve your desired consistency and balanced flavor.
- Chill the beverage: Transfer the agua fresca to the serving pitcher and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to serve well chilled.
- Serve and garnish: When ready, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled mango strawberry agua fresca over the ice. Garnish with a fresh strawberry slice, a mango cube, or a sprig of mint or basil to enhance presentation and aroma.
Notes
- Use ripe, sweet mangoes like Ataulfo or Alphonso for best flavor.
- The sweetener is optional; adjust according to the fruit’s natural sweetness and personal preference.
- Straining ensures a smooth, pulp-free drink but can be skipped for a more rustic texture.
- Add fresh herbs like mint or basil for additional flavor nuances.
- This drink is best served cold and consumed within 2 days for freshness.
