Recipe: Agua fresca with watermelon and lime

Total time: 15 minutes

Servings: Makes 2 1/2 quarts

Note: Agave nectar is available at Trader Joe’s stores, Whole Foods, Ralphs and other well-stocked supermarkets.

1 medium seedless watermelon, rind removed and cut into medium pieces (about 6 pounds)

2 tablespoons agave nectar

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 3 limes)

Sea salt

1. In a blender, purée the watermelon with 4 cups of water and the agave nectar, in batches.

2. Strain through a coarse strainer or mesh sieve, discarding any solids. Stir in the lime juice and a generous pinch of sea salt.

3. Adjust the seasoning and consistency to taste: agave nectar for sweetness, lime juice for tartness, sea salt to enhance flavor, and water to thin. Serve over ice. Garnish each glass with a slice of lime, if desired. This will keep for 2 days, refrigerated.

Each 8-ounce serving: 57 calories; 1 gram protein; 15 grams carbohydrates; 1 gram fiber; 0 fat; 0 saturated fat; 0 cholesterol; 7 mg. sodium.