Aguas Frescas (Mexican Fruit Coolers)

Aguas frescas, water-based fruit drinks, are a cool way to make your fresh fruit go further—especially in the summertime when you might have a larger watermelon than you know what to do with, or peaches that are starting to shrivel. These Mexican street drinks are traditionally very sweet and thin, but you can easily adjust the water and sugar to your taste and the sweetness of your fruit. Watermelon is the classic and is hard to beat. But I also like the tropical flavors of mangoes and peaches together. We always have fresh oranges at the restaurant—which are free for the taking in big wooden bowls—and I sometimes peel and chop the extras to blend into a cold drink as a healthier alternative to a soda. You can get creative by adding a handful of mint or other herb, or fresh ginger. Substitute sparkling water for plain if you prefer bubbles. Serve these aguas frescas with a lemon or lime wedge if you like more acidity.