
Photo by John Kernick
Mexican aguas frescas, or "fresh waters," made from all kinds of fresh fruit, flowers, or herbs, are a great way to beat the heat. This cantaloupe version gets additional vim from a splash of club soda.
Cooks' note:
Drink, without club soda, can be made 4 days ahead and chilled. Add soda just before serving.
Recipe information
Total Time
2 1/4 hr
Yield
Makes 8 drinks
Ingredients
1 (4-pound) cantaloupe, seeded and cut into 1-inch cubes (about 8 cups)
1 1/2 cups water
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon sugar
1 quart chilled club soda or seltzer
Garnish: lime wedges, honeydew melon slices
Preparation
Step 1
Purée cantaloupe in batches with water in a blender. Transfer to a colander lined with a kitchen towel (not terry cloth) or fine cheesecloth set over a deep bowl and let drain 1 hour. Gather ends of towel and very gently squeeze any remaining juice from melon, then discard solids.
Step 2
Stir in lime juice, sugar, and 1/4 tsp salt and chill 1 hour.
Step 3
Divide among 8 (10-ounces) glasses and top off with club soda.