When it comes to beverages I’m usually indifferent. Between drink and food, I’ll always choose the latter for my calorie splurges. But when a healthy indulgence comes along in liquid form I’ll at least consider giving it a shot.
After testing four agua fresca recipes this week – yes, four – pineapple agua fresca was the clear winner; the absolute best! This leads me to believe if there’s one fruity drink you indulge in this summer, this simply must be it!
The best part? It’s healthy since pineapple is loaded with vitamin C, manganese, fiber and boasts potential anti-inflammatory effects. Plus, it’s so easy to make and perfect for everyday or special occasions. I could see this being served at a brunch, a BBQ, a casual lunch or even as a light after-dinner “dessert.”
All you need is a ripe pineapple, water and a sweetener of your choice and you’ve got agua fresca for days. There’s no special equipment required either. If you’ve got a blender and a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, you’re all set.
Pineapple Agua Fresca
yields 4, 3/4 cup servings
Ingredients
1 ripe pineapple, cubed (~ 4-5 cups)
2 cups water
1/4 packet (~1/8 tsp) non-bitter stevia (or sub honey, sugar or Truvia)
Method | Add pineapple and 1 cup water to a blender and blend until well combined. Pour the mixture over a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a mixing bowl. Using a rubber spatula press the pulp down until all of the liquid has seeped through, being sure to knock and sweep the bottom to get every last drop. Transfer liquid to a large pitcher and add 1 – 2 cups more water (depending on preferred concentration). Add stevia or sweetener of choice and whisk. Taste and adjust flavor as needed. You could also add a touch of lemon or lime juice at this point if desired. Chill and stir once more before serving. Alternatively, add ice cubes, garnish with lime and pineapple and serve immediately!
Estimated nutrition for 1 of 4, 3/4 cup servings: 97 calories, 0 g fat, 25 g carbohydrates, 2 g fiber, 19 g sugar, 1 g protein
But wait there’s more!! I mean, one agua fresca is enough to keep you satisfied for a weekend or two, but summer is thirteen long weeks! We want you to refresh your glass on a regular basis. At the top we mentioned testing four agua fresca recipes, with pineapple being one. But we also made a few to share with our partners. Click through each to get those recipes (and more mouth-watering pictures!).
Cucumber Mint Agua Fresca – available at NatureBox.com
Mango Agua Fresca – available at HelloGiggles.com
Strawberry Lime Agua Fresca – available at FitBottomedEats.com
Also Try These Recipes:
Recipe: Grapefruit Lime Mimosas
Mexican Pizza and Guacamole Recipe
Wholly Guacamole Salsas Review
photos by Dana Shultz