Cucumber lime agua fresca (agua de pepino con limón) is a flavorful, refreshing drink that’s perfect for cooling off on a hot day. Made with just four ingredients, it’s quick to prepare, budget friendly, and always a crowd-pleaser at gatherings like your next carne asada or birthday party.
Growing up in a small town in México, my mother remembers summers were unbearably hot—and nothing quenched the heat like a cold glass of agua de pepino con limón. They didn’t have much, but they made the most of what they had, and this drink was a summertime staple.
Years later, when I was growing up in Georgia, my mom kept that tradition alive. After long summer days of playing outside, we’d come in to find a pitcher waiting in the fridge—a taste of her childhood, now part of mine.
This simple agua fresca is more than just refreshing; it’s a connection to our roots and a reminder that the best things in life are often the simplest.
This article is featured in the aguas frescas issue of our zine! Read the whole issue here.
Is Cucumber Lime Agua Fresca Good for You?
This agua fresca is a hydrating, low-calorie option rich in antioxidants from the cucumber and vitamin C from the lime (1).
If you’re looking for a more nutrient-dense option, try leaving the skin on the cucumber. This will not only add more flavor but also more fiber, helping support digestion and regular bowel movements.
While agua fresca can easily be part of a healthy diet, here are some potential drawbacks to keep in mind:
- If you plan to add sugar be mindful this will increase the calorie content of this drink.
- Due to the acidity of the lime, some people may experience acid reflux when they drink agua fresca.
- Cucumber has a mild diuretic effect that could cause frequency in urination in some people. This isn’t necessarily bad, just something to be mindful of!
Cucumber Lime Agua Fresca
Equipment
- 1 Blender
Ingredients
- 3 medium cucumbers
- ½ c. Lime juice approximately 5 limes
- 7 cups water
- 1 cup sugar or to taste
Instructions
- Wash and peel cucumbers leaving some of the skin for added flavor.
- Cut cucumbers into large chunks and place into the blender.
- Wash and cut limes in half.
- Squeeze lime juice into a container and then add to the blender.
- Add sugar and 3 cups of the water to the blender.
- Blend all the ingredients until a smooth mixture forms.
- Add ice and the remaining water to a pitcher
- Strain the blender mixture into the pitcher.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Leaving on some of the skin increases the nutrients in your agua fresca, but some cucumber skin can be very bitter! Give the peel a quick taste and then decide if you want to leave some of it on.
Recipe Variations
- Add chia seeds for an added boost of fiber. Combine 1 tbsp of chia seeds with ½ cup water and let it sit for at least 30 min until the seeds expand. Add to the agua fresca and enjoy!
- Add cucumber and lime slices for garnish.
- Create a fun mocktail by adding a chamoy rim and tajin to a fun glass and enjoy.
- Sugar can be substituted with other sweeteners such as agave, honey or a sugar substitute, depending on your preference.
Storing Agua Fresca
Store in an airtight pitcher in the fridge and enjoy within three days for best flavor.
This article is featured in the Aguas Frescas issue of our digital zine! Read the whole issue for more refreshing takes and dietitian-approved agua frescas!
About the Author
Melissa Cruz, RD
Melissa is a proud Mexican-American registered dietitian living in North Georgia with a passion for writing and helping inform others all about nutrition. Outside of writing, Melissa enjoys spending time with her daughter and husband, going to the farmers market and trying new restaurants.
Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissamcruz/