Lola's Cocina: Cucumber Agua Fresca

There is nothing better than agua fresca when the temperature starts to heat up.  And this week it's going to be hot.  Keep yourself hydrated by picking up some cucumbers to make this light and refreshing cucumber goodness from Lola's Cocina.

Ingredients:
3 medium cucumbers
2 Mexican or key limes peeled (optional)
½ cup sugar (or to taste)
8 cups water

Preparation:

1. Cut off about ½ inch from each end of cucumber. Rub the tips onto the flat ends of cucumber to help remove any bitterness. Discard the tips. Chop cucumbers into large chunks.
2. Working in batches, blend cucumber, limes, water, and sugar on high for 60 seconds.
3. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into large pitcher. You may need to agitate the mixture to let the juice through, avoid pushing through the pulp to keep juice light in consistency. Discard pulp.
4. Repeat process with remaining ingredients.
5. Chill and serve over ice. Garnish with lime wedge or cucumber.

Tip: Make it an adult beverage by adding a splash of Tequila or Vodka!

Image and Recipe via Lola's Cocina

Lola's Cocina: Blood Orange Agua Frecsa

It's time to mix things up in the kitchen and put a twist on the typical morning orange juice. This combination of oranges and lemons is sweet and tangy - perfect for a spicy breakfast of Green Chilaquiles!  Fun tip: Make extra to freeze in popsicle trays for a delicious afternoon treat!

Ingredients:

7 blood oranges freshly squeezed
7 Valencia oranges (the best for juicing) freshly squeezed
1 lemon (I prefer Eureka lemons – the ones with thick skin) freshly squeezed
4 cups water
3/4 cup sugar (or to taste)

Preparation:

1. Combine all three juices, water, and sugar. Stir very well.
2. Chill and serve over plenty of ice.

Images and Recipe: Lola's Cocina