Cantaloupe Agua Fresca
Beat the heat. Agua fresca or “Fresh water” fruit drinks are an everyday accompaniment to meals in Mexico. Using local fruits of the season, they make a refreshing sipper to wash away the dry, dusty days. Our cantaloupe agua fresca is a little more elaborate — sweetened with an infused simple syrup and topped off with seltzer and a fresh garnish. We like to be fancy. Sometimes.
This drink pairs well with some fresh Prosciutto.
Directions
For the basil-lime syrup
Combine the sugar, water, basil leaves, and lime zest in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to maintain a simmer and stir until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool completely. Strain.
For the aqua fresca
Working in batches in a blender, puree the cantaloupe with the water, 1/2 cup basil-lime syrup, lime juice, and salt until smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve and discard the solids. Taste and add up to 1/4 cup additional basil-lime syrup if you’d like it sweeter. Transfer to a pitcher and chill, or serve right away.
Fill 6 glasses with ice. Divide the agua fresca between the glasses and top off with sparkling water. Garnish with basil sprigs and lime slices, if desired.
