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Watermelon and Grapefruit Agua Fresca

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This vibrant watermelon and grapefruit agua fresca is the ultimate thirst-quencher for warm summer afternoons. Combining the natural sweetness of ripe seedless watermelon with the sophisticated, tart notes of fresh grapefruit, this Mexican-style fruit drink is both elegant and incredibly simple to prepare. By straining the purée through cheesecloth, you achieve a beautifully clear, light consistency that feels far more refined than a standard smoothie or juice.

As a naturally vegan and gluten-free beverage, this chilled drink is an excellent choice for garden parties or healthy family breakfasts. The pink grapefruit juice adds a lovely blush colour and a citrusy brightness that balances the sugar of the melon perfectly. Serve it in tall glasses over plenty of ice for a restorative, hydrating treat that celebrates seasonal produce at its best.

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Ingredients for Watermelon and Grapefruit Agua Fresca

  • 4325ml chopped seedless watermelon (one 4.5kg melon)

  • 300ml fresh white, ruby red, or pink grapefruit juice

  • Cheese cloth

How to make Watermelon and Grapefruit Agua Fresca

Working in batches, purée watermelon in a blender until smooth. Pour into a large bowl and let stand for 10 minutes. Skim foam from surface and discard.

Set a fine-mesh sieve over a large pitcher; line sieve with cheesecloth. Strain purée into pitcher (you should have almost 1675ml juice). Stir in grapefruit juice.

Fill glasses with ice. Divide agua fresca among glasses.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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