Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca

Name: Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled; 1/4 cup fresh lime juice; 3 cups cold water; 3–4 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste); Ice, for serving; Lime slices and strawberries for garnish (optional)

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I absolutely love how refreshing this Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca is! On hot summer days, there's nothing quite like sipping on this vibrant drink made from fresh strawberries and zesty lime. The combination of sweet and tart flavors is incredibly satisfying, and it's surprisingly simple to prepare. Just a few minutes in the blender, and I have a delicious beverage that delights everyone at my gatherings. Plus, it's a great way to enjoy seasonal fruits while staying hydrated!

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:40:34.502Z

When I first made this Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca, I couldn't believe how refreshing it was! The vibrant flavors of fresh strawberries combined with the zesty lime create a perfect summer drink. I remember hosting a small get-together, and my friends were raving about it. They loved how light and fruity it was, and it quickly became a staple during our gatherings.

While preparing it, I discovered that blending the strawberries first before adding the water helps achieve that vibrant color and perfect texture. If you want to enhance the sweetness, you can adjust the sugar to taste, but I personally enjoy the natural sweetness of the strawberries. It's truly a delightful treat that anyone can whip up in no time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Refreshing burst of fruitiness with every sip
Easy to make with just a few ingredients
Perfect for summer picnics and gatherings

Selecting the Best Strawberries

The quality of your strawberries can significantly impact the flavor of your Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca. Look for strawberries that are vibrant red, firm to the touch, and aromatic. Avoid any that are dull or have soft spots, as they are likely overripe. If strawberries are out of season, frozen strawberries can be a great alternative; just ensure they are unsweetened to maintain control over the sweetness level of your drink.

After selecting your strawberries, hull them carefully. This means removing the green leaves and the white core where the stems attach. Hull the berries just before use to maintain freshness, as pre-hulled strawberries can spoil quickly. For a smoother texture, consider blending in some of the strawberry tops, which adds a hint of earthiness.

Perfecting the Balance of Sweet and Tart

Achieving the right balance of sweetness and tartness is crucial for an enjoyable agua fresca. Start by adding the initial amount of sugar, but remember that you can always add more later. If the mixture tastes too tart after blending, try adding more sugar gradually until it reaches your desired sweetness. Additionally, if you’re avoiding refined sugar, consider using honey, agave syrup, or a sugar substitute; these can provide a different yet delightful flavor profile.

Another technique to enhance the tartness is to adjust the lime juice. Depending on the type of limes you have, they can vary in acidity. If your limes are on the sweeter side, you might want to use a bit more juice to achieve the refreshing zing characteristic of this drink.

Ingredients

For the Agua Fresca

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
3 cups cold water
3–4 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
Ice, for serving
Lime slices and strawberries for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Blend the Ingredients

In a blender, combine the hulled strawberries, fresh lime juice, and sugar. Blend until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a large pitcher to eliminate any seeds or pulp.

Add Water

Pour in the cold water and stir well. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more sugar if needed.

Serve

Serve the agua fresca over ice, garnished with lime slices and whole strawberries if desired. Enjoy immediately!

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, try adding a splash of sparkling water for some fizz!

Making Ahead and Storage

One of the best aspects of this Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca is that it can be made in advance. Prepare the mixture by blending the strawberries, lime juice, and sugar, then strain it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply add cold water and ice. This not only saves time during busy summer gatherings but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time.

If you wish to store leftovers, keep the agua fresca in a sealed pitcher in the fridge. However, it’s best consumed within 2 days to preserve the freshness of the strawberries and the brightness of the lime. Beyond that, the flavor can start to dull, and the drink can lose its vibrant color.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate your Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca experience, consider serving it in glasses adorned with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers. This adds an elegant touch that’s perfect for parties or special occasions. For a playful twist, serve over flavored ice cubes made from pureed strawberries or lime juice to keep the drink cold without diluting it.

You can also customize this refreshing drink by adding other fruits. Watermelon or cucumber blends beautifully with strawberries and adds a unique flavor. Simply blend in additional fruit when preparing the agua fresca for new variations. For an adult version, add a splash of sparkling water or a little tequila for a refreshing summer cocktail.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but they may result in a slightly different texture.

→ How long can I store the agua fresca?

It's best when served fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this recipe without sugar?

Absolutely! You can omit the sugar or use a natural sweetener to taste.

→ What other fruits can I use?

You can substitute other fruits like watermelon or mango for a different flavor profile!