Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines sweet and spicy flavors for a refreshing twist
- Super easy and quick to make with minimal ingredients
- Great for parties, cookouts, or just chilling at home
- Naturally hydrating and made with real fruit
- Can be easily adjusted to suit your spice level
- A fun and colorful alternative to sodas or overly sweet drinks
- Perfect for those who love a little heat with their sweetness
- Can be made ahead of time
- Naturally vegan and gluten-free
- Great way to use up fresh or frozen strawberries
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh strawberries, hulled
- Cold water
- Fresh lime juice
- Sugar or agave syrup (adjust to taste)
- A pinch of chili powder or Tajín seasoning
- Ice cubes
- Optional garnish: lime wedges, strawberry slices, or a chili-lime rim
Directions
- In a blender, combine strawberries, water, lime juice, sugar, and chili powder.
- Blend until completely smooth.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or chili level as desired.
- Strain through a fine mesh sieve if you prefer a smoother drink.
- Serve over ice in a chilled glass.
- Garnish with lime or a chili-lime rim for an extra festive touch.
- Stir before drinking and enjoy cold.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 3 to 4 servings and takes 10 minutes to prepare.
Variations
- Mango Chili Agua Fresca: Replace strawberries with mango for a tropical version.
- Spicy Tajín Rim: Rub the glass rim with lime and dip in Tajín seasoning.
- Herbal Boost: Add fresh mint or basil while blending for an herbal twist.
- No Sweetener: Use extra ripe strawberries and skip the sugar for a no-added-sugar option.
- Cucumber Addition: Blend in cucumber for added freshness and hydration.
- Frozen Treat: Pour into molds and freeze for spicy-sweet ice pops.
- Sparkling Version: Top with sparkling water instead of plain for a fizzy kick.
- Extra Spicy: Add a slice of fresh jalapeño while blending for serious heat.
- Lemon Twist: Swap lime juice for lemon for a brighter citrus flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in the refrigerator in a sealed container or pitcher for up to 2 days. Stir before serving.
- Reheating: Not applicable. This drink is best served cold.
FAQs
What is agua fresca?
Agua fresca is a light, non-alcoholic Mexican drink made from fruit, water, and a bit of sweetener.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, thawed frozen strawberries work just as well and make the drink extra cold.
How spicy is this drink?
It’s mildly spicy, but you can adjust the amount of chili to your taste.
What kind of chili should I use?
Chili powder or Tajín seasoning works well. For more heat, try a dash of cayenne.
Can I make this drink ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge.
Should I strain the drink?
It’s optional. If you prefer a smoother texture, strain it through a fine mesh sieve.
Is this drink healthy?
Yes, it’s made with fresh fruit and water, making it a hydrating and lower-calorie option.
Can I skip the sugar?
Absolutely. Use extra ripe strawberries or a natural sweetener like agave or stevia instead.
What’s the best way to serve this?
Serve cold over ice with a lime wedge or a Tajín-rimmed glass for extra flavor.
Can I use other fruits?
Yes! This recipe works well with watermelon, pineapple, mango, or a mix of fruits.
Conclusion
Strawberry Agua Fresca with Chili is the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, making it a standout refreshment for any occasion. It’s a bold twist on a traditional favorite that’s as easy to make as it is to love. With just a few ingredients and endless ways to customize it, this drink will quickly become a go-to whenever you need something cool, colorful, and full of flavor.
PrintStrawberry Agua Fresca with Chili
Strawberry Agua Fresca with Chili is a refreshing Mexican-inspired drink that blends the natural sweetness of strawberries with a spicy kick from chili powder or Tajín. It’s a colorful, hydrating, and fun beverage perfect for warm days or festive gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 3 to 4 servings
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Blended
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled
- 3 cups cold water
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 to 3 tablespoons sugar or agave syrup (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder or Tajín seasoning (adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes, for serving
- Optional garnish: lime wedges, strawberry slices, or chili-lime rim
Instructions
- In a blender, combine strawberries, water, lime juice, sugar, and chili powder.
- Blend until completely smooth.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level as needed.
- Strain through a fine mesh sieve if you prefer a smoother drink.
- Serve over ice in chilled glasses.
- Garnish with lime wedges, strawberry slices, or a chili-lime rim if desired.
- Stir before drinking and enjoy cold.
Notes
- Use very ripe strawberries for the best natural sweetness.
- Adjust chili amount to your heat preference—start small and add more as needed.
- Optional straining creates a smoother texture, but is not required.
- Try a Tajín-rimmed glass for an extra pop of flavor and presentation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg