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; 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 4-5 limes); 3-4 tablespoons agave syrup (to taste); 4 cups cold water; Ice cubes; Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Special Seasonal Food Inspiration

I absolutely love making Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca as a refreshing drink on hot summer days. The blend of sweet strawberries with tangy lime creates a delicious balance that’s perfect for sipping by the pool or at a picnic. It only takes a few simple ingredients and minutes to whip up. This drink not only quenches my thirst but also brings a burst of color and flavor that brightens up any gathering. Plus, it’s so easy to customize for different tastes. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:20:37.807Z

One of my favorite memories is enjoying a refreshing drink on a hot summer evening, and Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca always takes me back there. When I first made it, I was surprised by how quickly the vibrant flavors came together. The key is to blend the strawberries well to extract their sweetness and then balance it with the lime. This method really intensifies the flavor and creates a lively drink.

I've experimented with different sweeteners, but I find that a touch of agave syrup adds a lovely smoothness without overpowering the fruit's natural taste. When serving, I like to add some fresh mint for an aromatic touch and stretch it with sparkling water, making it an elegant drink for any occasion!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Refreshing fruit combination that’s perfect for hydration
Bright color that adds a festive touch to any table
Customizable sweetness to suit your taste

Choosing the Best Strawberries

The quality of your strawberries directly influences the flavor of your Agua Fresca. Look for berries that are bright red, firm, and fragrant, as these will offer the best sweetness and juiciness. Avoid any that have green or white patches, which usually indicate under-ripeness. If strawberries are not in season, frozen strawberries can be a great alternative; just make sure to thaw them before blending to achieve the right consistency.

When preparing your strawberries, take care to hull them properly. This involves removing the green leafy tops and the white core, which can sometimes impart a bitter taste. A paring knife works well for this, but if you're in a hurry, a simple straw can also be used to push through the berry from the bottom to the top, efficiently removing the hull without losing too much fruit.

The Role of Lime Juice

Fresh lime juice is a crucial ingredient in this recipe, as it amplifies the sweetness of the strawberries while adding a zesty contrast. When juicing limes, roll them firmly on a countertop before cutting; this helps release more juice. For a stronger lime flavor, consider using more than the suggested half cup, but be cautious not to overpower the drink. Adjusting lime juice allows you to tailor the beverage to your taste preferences.

If you're in need of a lime substitute, lemon juice can also work well, though it may alter the flavor profile slightly. For a more unique twist, try adding a splash of orange juice for added sweetness, but be aware that this can make the drink a bit sweeter, so adjust the agave syrup accordingly.

Serving and Enjoying Your Agua Fresca

For the best presentation, serve your Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca in clear glasses to showcase its vibrant color. Adding ice cubes not only chills the beverage but also keeps it refreshing longer. Garnishing with fresh mint leaves adds an aromatic element that complements the drink beautifully. If mint isn’t available, consider using basil or even a slice of lime for a decorative touch.

This Agua Fresca can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just keep in mind that the flavors will meld together more intensely over time, so you may want to taste and adjust sweetness or acidity before serving. For a sparkling twist, consider adding a splash of club soda just before serving to give it a bubbly finish.

Ingredients

For Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled
1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 4-5 limes)
3-4 tablespoons agave syrup (to taste)
4 cups cold water
Ice cubes
Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Blend the strawberries

In a blender, combine the hulled strawberries with 1 cup of cold water. Blend until smooth.

Strain the mixture

Pour the blended strawberries through a fine mesh strainer into a large pitcher. Use a spoon to press the puree to extract as much juice as possible.

Mix the ingredients

Add the fresh lime juice and agave syrup to the pitcher, then stir to combine. Pour in the remaining cold water and stir well.

Serve

Serve over ice, garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired, and enjoy your refreshing drink!

Pro Tips

For an adult twist, consider adding a splash of tequila or vodka to make this a fun party drink!

Customizing Your Sweetness

The amount of agave syrup used in this recipe can be easily modified depending on your sweetness preference or the natural sweetness of the strawberries. If you're watching your sugar intake, consider using alternatives like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, which can offer sweetness without the calories. Remember to add these substitutes gradually, as they can vary significantly in sweetness compared to agave syrup.

Alternatively, for a more complex flavor, you might experiment with adding a hint of honey, which can complement the fruity profile of the drink. Just be aware that honey has a distinct taste and a thicker texture, so start with a smaller amount and adjust until it suits your taste.

Making It a Party Drink

For gatherings or barbecues, consider transforming this Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca into a cocktail by adding a splash of tequila or rum. This addition elevates the drink, making it a festive option for adult parties. When mixing spirits, it's best to combine them in individual glasses rather than the pitcher to control the alcohol level based on personal preference.

You can also create a non-alcoholic version for kids or those who prefer not to drink. Simply replace the alcohol with sparkling water and perhaps a few slices of fresh fruit, like lime or orange, to make it visually appealing and even more refreshing.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Agua Fresca, store it in an airtight pitcher in the refrigerator for a maximum of three days. To prevent any dilution from ice melting, consider adding ice only to individual servings rather than to the entire pitcher. This way, you'll maintain the drink's vibrant flavor and texture for longer.

In terms of freezing, while it's possible to freeze Agua Fresca, be sure to leave some space in the container for expansion. When thawing, it's best to do so in the refrigerator overnight, which helps preserve the flavors and textures. It may separate upon thawing, so give it a good stir before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw them first for better blending.

→ How long can I store the Agua Fresca?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Shake or stir before serving.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just mix all the ingredients together and store it in the fridge. Add ice just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for agave syrup?

You can also use honey, maple syrup, or any other sweetener you prefer. Adjust the amount based on your taste.