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
Scale
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.
