Watermelon Agua Fresca

By á-174942

Ingredients

• 1 ripe, red seedless watermelon - (abt 12 lbs)
• Juice of 4 limes
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 cup crushed fresh mint leaves plus
• mint sprigs for garnish
• 4 cups sparkling water
• 3 limes thinly sliced
• 2 quarts ice cubes

Details

Servings 8

Preparation

Step 1

Cut the watermelon in half and, using a metal spoon, scoop out the flesh into a large bowl. Working in batches, puree the watermelon in a blender or food processor. As each batch is ready, transfer it to another large bowl.

Add the lime juice, sugar and mint leaves to the puree, and stir to dissolve the sugar and combine the ingredients. Cover and let stand at room temperature for at least 1 hour or up to 3 hours to allow the flavors to develop.

Pour the watermelon mixture through a medium-mesh sieve into a large, clear glass jar. Add the sparkling water, lime slices and ice. Ladle or pour into glasses and garnish each glass with a mint sprig.

This recipe yields 8 servings.