Agua de Pepino (or Cucumber Agua Fresca) is a hydrating, delicious Mexican drink perfect for a hot day.
This post may include affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Growing up, this drink was not just reserved for summer. We made it all the time, all year long.
To this day, it’s one of my favorite agua frescas served next to a Ceviche de Camaron, of course! 😃
Light, crisp, and so refreshing. You’re going to love every sip!
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- cucumbers, peeled and chopped 🥒
- water 💧
- granulated sugar (or to taste) 🍚
- Lime Juice 🍋
- Ice cubes ❄️
Selecting a fresh cucumber:
Choose cucumbers that are firm to the touch, without any soft spots or wrinkles.
Opt for a deep green color, avoiding any yellow or overly pale cucumbers.
Smaller cucumbers often have fewer seeds and a more concentrated flavor, making them ideal for this agua fresca recipe. 🌟
Instructions
- In a blender, combine the chopped cucumber, cold water, and sugar.
- Blend until smooth and well combined.
Agua fresca translated into English means “fresh water.” 💦
History
Aguas frescas, with their centuries-long history in Mexico, have been quenching thirsts since pre-Columbian times. Ancient Mesoamericans blended fruits, flowers, and grains with water, creating these refreshing drinks. The 16th-century Spanish added new flavors, enriching the aguas frescas tradition.
Today, these vibrant thirst quenchers remain a beloved part of Mexico’s rich culinary heritage, delighting taste buds worldwide. They are one of the best ways to enjoy fresh fruit. Agua Fresca de Pepino is a beloved variety, combining the natural crispness of cucumbers with a touch of sweetness for a drink that’s as healthy as it is satisfying.
- Strain the cucumber mixture through a fine mesh sieve and into a large pitcher or a bowl.
- Press down with the back of a spoon to extract all of the fruit juice.
- Discard the pulp.
OPTIONAL: Some people will skip this step and make a chunkier drink. This is up to you.
Other Names for this Drink
- Cucumber Lime Agua Fresca
- Cucumber Lime Water
- Cucumber Limeade
- Agua de Pepino y Limon
- Agua de Limón y pepino
- Jugo de Pepino
If you see any of these names on the menu, you will get this drink.
- Add the remaining 4 cups of water, lime juice, and ice cubes to the pitcher.
- Stir to combine. 🥄
- Grab a glass and add plenty of ice.
Taste your cucumber water and lemon for good measure. It’s really a matter of taste.
A healthier option, of course, is to use less sugar or add a cup of water.
Or, add more lime juice for a more tangy flavor.
For my diabetic friends, use a sugar substitute like Stevia to sweeten the drink.
Pour into the glass and garnish with cucumber slices, if desired.
Pro Tips:
Adjust the sugar to taste, depending on your personal preference.
Try adding fresh mint leaves for a burst of extra refreshment! 🍃
For a grown-up twist, mix in a splash of gin or vodka for a cucumber-infused cocktail as in this Spiked Agua de Pepino recipe🍹 or Cucumber Gin Cocktail.
Storing and Freezing Instructions
Store in an airtight container for 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
Or, cover the container with plastic wrap to preserve freshness and important vitamins.
Place in a sealable plastic bag and remove as much air as possible. Store in the freezer for up to 4 months.
More Agua Fresca Recipes
Agua de Pepino (or Cucumber Agua Fresca) tastes like a spa day in a glass – refresh, relax, and relish every sip! 💆♀️🥤 Make a big pitcher of this popular Mexican Agua Fresca today.
Hungry for More?
Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter and follow along on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, YouTube for my latest recipes and videos.
Cucumber Lime Agua Fresca
Equipment
- Blender
- Strainer
Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers peeled and chopped
- 6 cups water
- ½ cup fresh lime juice about 5-6 limes
- ⅔ cup sugar
Instructions
- In a blender add cucumbers, lime juice, sugar, and 3 cups of water.
- Blend until smooth.
- Strain the liquid into a pitcher.
- Press down with the back of spoon to extract all of the juice.
- Discard the pulp
- Add the remaining water.
- Taste for good measure.
- Serve chilled over ice.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
This post was recently republished. You might remember the old images.
Maggie Unzueta is the writer/blogger, photographer, recipe developer, videographer, and creator of In Mama Maggie's Kitchen. She has been developing easy and authentic Mexican food, Mexican-inspired recipes, and traveling tips since 2010. From family recipes to her extensive travels throughout Mexico, she brings traditional Mexican flavors from South of the Border and into your kitchen. Maggie has been featured in notable culinary websites and other media outlets. For more details, check out her About page.
Fantastically refreshing! This is much better than any bottled version I’ve had. I will continue to make and enjoy this recipe as long as I have cucumbers.
You won’t regret it. This recipe is super tasty, you can customize it to your taste and enjoy the freshness of the ingredients. Enjoy!