This recipe is reprinted from “New Favorites for New Cooks” by Carolyn Federman. Published by Ten Speed Press. Copyright 2018.
Watermelon Refresher (Agua de Sandia)
Is it possible that watermelon is even better to drink than it is to eat? Zap it up in a blender—which takes about 1 minute—and even the least-great watermelon turns into a slushy, foamy, cooling delight. Agua de sandia, which means “water of watermelon,” is a type of agua fresca—a Mexican drink made of fresh fruit pureed with water—that cleverly uses ripe fruit to beat the summer heat.
You Will Need: Measuring cup, chef’s knife, small spoon, large serving spoon, blender- 2 limes
- One 3- to 4-pound ripe watermelon
- 1 1/2 cups water
- A pinch of coarse salt
- Ice cubes for serving
1. Using a knife, carefully cut one lime in half and cut the other lime into quarters.
2. Cut the watermelon in half. With the cut side down, quarter the watermelon and then remove the seeds with a small spoon. Cut the melon from the rind with a large serving spoon, scooping away from you. Roughly chop the melon (remember to use “the claw” to protect your fingers); you should have about 6 cups.
3. In a blender, combine the watermelon, water, and salt. Juice the lime halves into the blender. (Reserve the lime quarters for garnish.) Blend, starting on low speed and gradually working up to the highest setting, until smooth and frothy, about 30 seconds, then let it settle for a minute or so.
4. Serve in tall glasses over ice, with a squeeze of lime juice, if you'd like, and a quarter of lime for garnish.
