Refreshing Watermelon Basil Drink

This cooling Watermelon-Basil Agua Fresca blends juicy watermelon with aromatic basil for a thirst-quenching summer drink. It's just what you need when temperatures soar - sweet, tangy, and incredibly refreshing.

What You'll Need

• Water: 1 cup, thinning out the mixture for easy sipping.
• Fresh Basil: 1 teaspoon, minced, bringing a garden-fresh aroma that works wonders with watermelon.
• Agave Syrup: 2 teaspoons, adding gentle sweetness without overpowering other flavors.
• Watermelon: 2 cups diced, delivering natural sweetness and hydration benefits.
• Ice: For serving, keeping everything cool and invigorating.
• Lime Juice: Juice of 1/2 lime, cutting through sweetness with bright acidity.

Preparation Steps

Step 1:

Toss the diced watermelon, water, lime juice, agave syrup, and chopped basil into your blender.

Step 2:

Run the blender at high power until everything turns silky smooth.

Step 3:

Give it a quick taste and add more agave if you want it sweeter.

Step 4:

Pour into tall glasses filled with ice for that truly cool drinking experience.

Step 5:

If you're feeling fancy, top with a tiny basil leaf or lime slice for looks.

How to Serve & Store

Pour this Watermelon-Basil Agua Fresca over lots of ice when the sun's blazing. Stick a basil leaf or lime wedge on the glass rim to make it look pretty. Got leftovers? They'll stay good in the fridge for up to 2 days in a sealed container. Just give it a good shake before you pour it again.

Quick Pointers

Want the basil flavor to pop more? Throw in a couple extra leaves when you blend. If you've got a sweet tooth, don't hold back on the agave - add as much as you like.

Pro Chef Suggestions

Ina Garten loves adding a dash of bubbly water right before drinking for some fizz. Yotam Ottolenghi suggests freezing your watermelon chunks ahead of time so your drink stays super cold without getting watery from melting ice.

Why This Hits the Spot

This summer cooler comes packed with natural sweetness and plenty of hydration for scorching days. The watermelon-basil combo creates an irresistible fresh taste that'll keep you coming back. Plus, it takes less than 5 minutes to whip up.

Switch It Up

Try swapping basil for fresh mint or cilantro to change the flavor profile. Want bubbles? Use fizzy water instead of still. Looking for an adult version? A splash of rum or tequila turns this into the perfect summer cocktail.