Agua Fresca

Agua fresca is a light, refreshing beverage from Mexico made by blending fruit, flowers, or seeds with water and a touch of sweetener. Common variations include horchata (rice-based), jamaica (hibiscus), and flavors like watermelon, cucumber, or tamarind. It's a staple street drink and homemade refreshment throughout Mexico and parts of Central America.

🍳 View the full Agua Fresca recipe →

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Agua fresca is typically low in fat and protein, with most calories coming from carbohydrates in the form of natural fruit sugars and added sweetener. A standard 1-cup serving usually contains around 50-80 calories and provides hydration along with some vitamins and electrolytes, depending on the fruit used.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	50 kcal
Protein	0.5 g
Carbs	12 g
Fat	0 g
Fiber	0.5 g
Sugar	11 g
Sodium	5 mg
Vitamin C	15 mg
Potassium	100 mg
Magnesium	10 mg
Vitamin A	50 IU
Folate	10 mcg
Calcium	10 mg
Iron	0.2 mg
Phosphorus	15 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

The term 'agua fresca' literally means 'fresh water' in Spanish, highlighting its role as a hydrating alternative to soda or juice. Nutritionally, it's unique because it offers the flavor and some nutrients of whole fruit but in a much more diluted, lower-calorie form than traditional fruit juice.