Save to Pinterest Last summer, I walked into my kitchen overheated and desperate for something cold that wasn't just ice water. I grabbed a bunch of mint from the windowsill and a few limes from the bowl, tossed them in the blender with sugar and water, and within minutes I had this impossibly refreshing drink that tasted like a vacation. My neighbor came over, tried it, and asked if I'd opened a juice bar without telling her.
I started making this every weekend when friends came over, and it became the thing people requested before they even sat down. One afternoon my cousin added a splash of rum to hers and declared it the best decision she'd made all week. I kept the pitcher alcohol-free, but I loved that it worked both ways depending on the mood.
Ingredients
- Fresh mint leaves: Use the bright green ones from the top of the stems, they have the most flavor and blend smoothly without turning bitter.
- Limes: Roll them on the counter before juicing to get every drop out, and taste one first because some limes are sweeter than others.
- Granulated sugar: I use regular white sugar because it dissolves fast in the blender, but agave syrup works if you want a softer sweetness.
- Cold water: The colder the better, it keeps everything crisp and stops the mint from wilting.
- Ice cubes: I add these at the end so they don't water down the drink too quickly.
Instructions
- Blend the Base:
- Throw the mint, lime juice, sugar, and 2 cups of water into the blender and run it until the mint breaks down into tiny green flecks. The sugar should vanish completely and the liquid will turn pale green.
- Strain It:
- Pour the blended mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into your pitcher, pressing gently with a spoon to get all the liquid out. Toss the leftover mint bits, they've done their job.
- Add the Rest:
- Stir in the remaining 2 cups of cold water and drop in the ice cubes. Give it a good stir so everything mixes evenly and the temperature drops.
- Adjust Sweetness:
- Take a sip and see if it needs more sugar or lime. I usually add a tiny pinch more sugar because I like it just barely sweet.
- Serve Cold:
- Pour into glasses and toss in a lime slice or a sprig of mint if you feel fancy. It looks pretty and smells amazing.
Save to Pinterest One evening I made this for a backyard dinner and set the pitcher on the table with a bowl of lime slices. People kept refilling their glasses between bites of tacos, and by the end of the night the pitcher was empty and someone had written the recipe down on a napkin. That's when I knew this drink had become more than just something I made for myself.
Make It Your Own
If you want bubbles, swap half the water for sparkling water after you strain the mint mixture, it turns into something that feels celebratory. I've also tried adding a handful of cucumber slices to the blender for a spa-like twist, and it worked beautifully. Some people like it sweeter, some like it tart, so don't be afraid to adjust until it tastes right to you.
Storing and Serving
This keeps in the fridge for about two days, though the flavor is brightest on the first day. I like to make it in the morning and let it chill until lunch, so it's ice cold when I pour it. If you're bringing it somewhere, transport it in a sealed pitcher and add the ice right before serving so it doesn't get watery.
What to Pair It With
I serve this alongside anything with bold flavors, tacos, grilled chicken, spicy shrimp, because the mint and lime cut through richness and reset your palate between bites. It's also perfect on its own in the afternoon when you just need something cold and reviving.
- Add a splash of rum or tequila if you want to turn it into a cocktail.
- Use agave syrup instead of sugar for a smoother, less granular sweetness.
- Freeze leftover agua fresca in ice cube trays and drop them into plain water for a subtle hint of flavor.
Save to Pinterest This drink reminds me that the best recipes don't need to be complicated to feel special. Sometimes all you need is fresh mint, a few limes, and the willingness to blend something simple into something that makes people smile.
Recipe FAQs
- → What is the best way to prepare the mint for this drink?
Lightly blend the mint leaves with lime juice and sugar to release their fresh flavor before straining to remove solids.
- → Can I use a different sweetener instead of sugar?
Yes, alternatives like agave syrup work well to add a smooth sweetness without overpowering the mint and lime.
- → How can I make this beverage sparkling?
After straining, replace half the cold water with sparkling water to add a fizzy, refreshing texture.
- → Is this drink suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely, all ingredients are plant-based and naturally vegan friendly.
- → What tools are recommended for preparing this drink?
A blender to chop the mint and dissolve sugar, and a fine-mesh sieve to strain the mixture ensure a smooth finish.