The first sip of this Simple Strawberry Agua Fresca is like a refreshing summer breeze, instantly transporting me to sun-drenched afternoons on the patio. This delightful non-alcoholic drink is crafted using ripe, juicy strawberries and a zing of lime, making it a perfect alternative to sugary sodas. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, ensuring that you can serve a crowd with minimal effort. Whether it’s a family barbecue or a casual get-together, this strawberry agua fresca will be the star of your summer refreshment lineup. Curious about how to bring this delicious burst of berry bliss to your kitchen? Let’s dive into making this vibrant beverage that everyone will love!

Why will you love strawberry agua fresca?

Refreshing sips of summer: This drink is a delightful way to cool down, bursting with fresh strawberry flavor and a hint of lime.
Versatile base: Easily modify sweetness or swap in other fruits like mango or peach for a unique twist.
Quick and easy: With just a blender and a few ingredients, you’ll have this vibrant beverage ready in no time!
Family-friendly: Perfect for kids and adults alike, this non-alcoholic drink easily fits into any gathering or barbecue.
Chill-worthy: Serve it over ice to create a refreshing experience that’ll become a summer favorite, just like my Vegan Strawberry Muffins or Strawberry Honey Custard.

Strawberry Agua Fresca Ingredients

For the Base

Fresh Strawberries – The star of the drink; use ripe, bright red strawberries for the best flavor. Frozen strawberries can also be a quick alternative!
Cold Water – Helps achieve that perfect drinkable consistency; be careful not to add too much and lose the strawberry punch.

For Creaminess

Whole Milk – Adds a rich and creamy texture; feel free to substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
Sweetened Condensed Milk – This ingredient enhances sweetness and creaminess; if you’d prefer less sugar, regular sugar or agave syrup works just fine.

For Serving

Ice Cubes – Essential for a refreshing cold drink; adding ice directly to glasses helps keep the flavor concentrated in the agua fresca.

Now that you have everything you need, let’s blend up some delicious Strawberry Agua Fresca that will steal the summer show!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Refreshing Strawberry Agua Fresca

Step 1: Blend the Strawberries
Begin by hulling 2 pounds of fresh, ripe strawberries, ensuring all green tops are removed. Place the hulled strawberries in a blender along with 1 cup of cold water. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and liquid, which should take about 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when the vibrant red color shines through without any lumps.

Step 2: Strain the Strawberry Puree
Using a fine-mesh sieve, pour the strawberry mixture into a bowl or pitcher to separate the liquid from the pulp and seeds. Gently press down with a spatula or the back of a spoon to extract every drop of juice, aiming for a smooth consistency. The resulting strawberry liquid should be vibrant and free of any solids.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large pitcher, combine the strained strawberry liquid with 4 cups of whole milk and 1 can of sweetened condensed milk. Add an additional 3 cups of cold water to achieve the desired diluteness. Stir the mixture thoroughly with a wooden spoon until all components are well-combined, ensuring a smooth, creamy texture that highlights the fresh strawberry flavor.

Step 4: Chill the Agua Fresca
Cover the pitcher with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour. This step is important as it helps marry the flavors together and ensures the strawberry agua fresca is refreshingly cold when served. Check the mixture after an hour; it should be cool and ready to enjoy.

Step 5: Serve Over Ice
When ready to serve, take tall glasses and fill each with ice cubes to your liking. Pour the chilled strawberry aqua fresca over the ice, allowing it to cascade and create a visually appealing drink. For added texture, consider Garnishing with finely chopped strawberries floating on top, which will invite your guests to dive into flavor.

Strawberry Agua Fresca Variations

Feel free to whip up your own version of this delightful drink and spark some creative flavors!

Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk for a creamy yet plant-based twist.
Sweeter Sips: Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sweetened condensed milk based on your preference; taste as you go!
Fruity Fusion: Blend in peaches or mangoes along with the strawberries for a delicious, tropical flavor combination.
Coconut Dream: Swap in coconut milk instead of cow’s milk for a rich, tropical vibe that complements the strawberries beautifully.
Minty Freshness: Infuse your agua fresca with fresh mint leaves; they can add a refreshing, fragrant touch that brightens every sip.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or jalapeño slices to bring a playful spicy note to your drink.
Bubbly Variation: Stir in some club soda or sparkling water before serving for a fizzy take on your strawberry refresher!
Strawberry Basil: Try adding fresh basil to your mix—its herbaceous flavor pairs delightfully with the sweetness of strawberries, creating a garden-fresh sip.

If you’re looking for other berry-inspired treats, don’t forget to check out my scrumptious Vegan Strawberry Muffins or enticing Strawberry Honey Custard!

Make Ahead Options

These Simple Strawberry Agua Fresca are perfect for busy home cooks planning ahead! You can prepare the strawberry puree up to 48 hours in advance by blending 2 pounds of hulled strawberries with 1 cup of cold water and storing the strained mixture in the fridge. Just keep it covered to maintain freshness and flavor. When you’re ready to serve, mix the chilled strawberry liquid with 4 cups of whole milk, 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, and 3 cups of cold water right before serving. This ensures that your strawberry agua fresca is just as delicious and refreshing as when you made it, saving you time when entertaining guests or enjoying a hot summer day!

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Agua Fresca

Fridge: Store leftover strawberry agua fresca in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving, as ingredients may separate.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the strawberry liquid (without milk) in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer cubes to a freezer bag and keep for up to 2 months. Blend with milk when ready to serve.
Serving: Always serve the strawberry agua fresca chilled. Pour it over ice directly for a refreshing treat, enhancing the vibrant flavors of the drink.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the strawberry base in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before mixing with milk and ice for ultimate freshness.

What to Serve with Simple Strawberry Agua Fresca

Elevate your summer gatherings with complementary dishes that enhance the fresh, fruity vibes of this delightful drink!

Spicy Tacos: The heat from the spices is beautifully offset by the refreshing strawberry flavors, making each sip more enjoyable.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: Charred, smoky chicken pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy agua fresca, creating a delightful contrast.
Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits echoes the sweet notes of your beverage, providing a colorful and nutritious side.
Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado brings a savory richness that balances out the drink’s sweetness, offering a satisfying bite.
Cheese and Crackers: A classic pairing! The nutty flavors of the cheese harmonize with the fruity notes, perfect for casual snacking.
Fresh Ceviche: Light and zesty, ceviche’s bright flavors complement the strawberry agua fresca, enhancing your summer spread beautifully.
Chilled Gazpacho: This refreshing cold soup serves as a vibrant appetizer that mirrors the cool essence of your drink.
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a scoop of zesty lemon sorbet brings a delightful palette cleanser that leaves a lasting impression alongside the agua fresca.

Expert Tips for Strawberry Agua Fresca

Use Ripe Strawberries: Be sure to select bright red, ripe strawberries for the best flavor, ensuring your strawberry agua fresca truly shines.
Strain Well: Don’t skip the straining step! This helps achieve a smooth texture, preventing any gritty bits from detracting from your delightful drink.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste your mix before serving; depending on the ripeness of the strawberries, you might need to tweak the sweetness for optimal flavor.
Chill Everything: Pre-chill your ingredients, including water and milk, ensuring your beverage is super refreshing and perfect for those sunny days.
Serve Immediately: For the best flavor and texture, serve your strawberry agua fresca as soon as it’s ready. It tastes best fresh or within 3 days when stored in the fridge.

Strawberry Agua Fresca Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting strawberries?
Absolutely! Go for ripe, bright red strawberries, as they are sweeter and more flavorful. When selecting, avoid any with dark spots or soft areas. If fresh strawberries aren’t available, frozen ones make a great substitute!

How can I store leftover strawberry agua fresca?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to stir well before pouring, as the ingredients may separate during storage. I often find it tastes best when enjoyed fresh, but this option works perfectly for those busy days!

Can I freeze strawberry agua fresca?
Yes, you can freeze the strawberry liquid (without the milk) in ice cube trays for up to 2 months. Just pour the blended mixture into the trays and once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. When you’re ready, blend the frozen cubes with cold milk for a quick, refreshing drink!

What if my agua fresca is too sweet?
Not an issue! If you find your strawberry agua fresca is too sweet, you can balance it out by adding a little more cold water or milk. Just remember to blend it again for a couple of seconds to combine everything smoothly to your desired taste.

Can I make this drink dairy-free?
Very! To make a dairy-free version, swap out whole milk for almond, oat, or coconut milk. This substitution still gives you that creamy texture while keeping it friendly for those who avoid dairy.

Is strawberry agua fresca safe for pets?
While strawberries are generally safe for dogs in moderation, the milk and sweetened condensed milk can upset their tummies. It’s best to keep the agua fresca for human enjoyment only. Always consult your veterinarian for any dietary concerns regarding what your pets should or shouldn’t consume.