Watermelon Fresca Recipe
Make Watermelon Fresca Recipe in just 15m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Watermelon base
Herb & flavor
Fizzy finish
Optional/add-ins
Method
Prepare watermelon base
Blend watermelon
Place the cubed watermelon in a blender. Add the fresh lime juice and granulated sugar. Blend on high until completely smooth, about 30–45 seconds.
Strain (optional)
If you prefer a silky, seed-free and pulp-free fresca, pour the blended watermelon through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher, pressing with the back of a spoon to extract liquid. Discard solids. If you like a pulpy drink, skip straining.
Add herbs and adjust sweetness
Tear the mint leaves (and basil, if using) lightly to release oils and add them to the pitcher with the watermelon juice. Stir and let sit 5 minutes to infuse. Taste and, if more sweetness is desired, stir in up to 1 teaspoon simple syrup or another 1/2–1 teaspoon granulated sugar until dissolved.
If making an alcoholic version, add the tequila or white rum now and stir to combine.
Finish and serve
Add the cold sparkling water or club soda to the pitcher and gently stir once to combine. Add ice to individual glasses or to the pitcher as desired.
If rimming glasses, rub a lime wedge around the rim and dip in coarse salt. Fill glasses with ice, pour the watermelon fresca over ice, making sure to include some mint leaves for aroma.
Garnish each glass with a sprig of mint and a small wedge of lime or a thin watermelon slice. Serve immediately so the drink stays fizzy.