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Watermelon Ginger Lime Agua Fresca with Extract — Spicy Zesty Watermelon Cooler
Dolce Flav
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Watermelon Agua Fresca
Author:
Dolce Flav
Servings
6
Prep Time
12 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes
This Watermelon Ginger Lime Agua Fresca uses watermelon agua fresca extract plus a hint of fresh watermelon, lively lime, and warming ginger to create a refreshing yet subtly spicy cooler. You simply blend all ingredients until smooth, strain if desired, chill, then serve over ice with bright garnishes. The ginger adds a zing that plays beautifully with watermelon’s natural sweetness, making this a standout summer mocktail or light cocktail base.
Ingredients
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½ cup Watermelon Agua Fresca Extract (concentrated)
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3 cups cold water
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2 cups fresh seedless watermelon cubes (optional, for extra body)
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2 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
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1 tbsp fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced (or 1 tsp ginger juice)
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2–3 tbsp agave syrup or simple syrup (adjust sweetness)
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Pinch of fine sea salt (optional)
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Ice cubes for serving
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Garnish: thin lime slices, ginger slivers, mint or basil leaves
Directions
Prep ingredients. Slice ginger, cube watermelon (if using), and juice the lime. Chill water ahead if possible.
Blend extract mixture. In a blender, combine the watermelon agua fresca extract, cold water, fresh watermelon cubes, lime juice, sliced ginger, and agave syrup. Blend on high until smooth and the ginger is well incorporated.
Taste and adjust. Sample the blend. Add more sweetener or lime as needed. A small pinch of salt can enhance brightness.
Strain (optional). For a silky texture, pour the blended mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a pitcher, pressing gently to extract liquid while leaving behind pulp and fibrous bits.
Chill thoroughly. Refrigerate for about 20 minutes or until fully chilled.
Serve over ice with garnish. Pour into glasses filled with ice. Garnish each with a lime slice, ginger sliver, and fresh mint or basil.
Optional adult version. Add 1 oz (30 ml) vodka, gin, or light rum per serving. Stir gently — the ginger pairs especially well with gin.
Recipe Note
FAQ — Watermelon Ginger Lime Agua Fresca
Can I omit the fresh watermelon cubes?
Yes — the extract + water alone will provide plenty of watermelon flavor. The fresh cubes just add extra body and mouthfeel.
How strong should the ginger taste be?
Start with 1 tablespoon fresh ginger. If you prefer more heat, you can increase to 1.5 tablespoons or add a pinch of ground ginger. Taste and adjust carefully.
Is straining necessary?
No — straining gives a smooth, clear drink. Leaving it unstrained keeps pulp and fiber for a more rustic, full-bodied texture.
How long can it be stored?
Keep it in a sealed pitcher in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving as separation may happen.
Can I make it sparkling?
Yes — top each glass with chilled club soda or sparkling water just before serving to preserve fizz.
What sweetener works best?
Agave syrup, simple syrup, or honey all work. Use less if your extract is already quite sweet.
Does ginger go well with watermelon?
Yes — ginger adds a warm, spicy contrast that elevates the sweetness of watermelon, making the drink more interesting.
Is this drink kid-friendly?
Absolutely — just leave out any alcohol. You may also reduce the sugar slightly if serving to children.
What alcohol pairs nicely?
Gin or light rum complement the ginger and watermelon flavors well. Use about 1 oz per serving.
Why add a pinch of salt?
Salt lifts flavors, balances acidity and sweetness, and makes the fruit notes pop more.