Agua fresca is a light, refreshing, non-alcoholic drink popular in Mexico and Central America. Our take is made by juicing apples, grapes, cucumbers, and lemon together with romaine, and adding dill, fennel seed, salt, and club soda. Crafted with sustainable ingredients you may be able to find grown locally, it’s a feel-good way to share something simple yet special on beverage menus.
This recipe is featured as part of the Simple to Spectacular trend from the 2026 Flavor Forecast.
Ingredients
Agua Fresca | Serves 3 (8-ounce)
- 2 Large Granny Smith Apples, Cored and Quartered
- 1/2 cup Seedless Green Grapes, Washed
- 1 cup Chopped English Cucumber
- 1/2 Lemon, Peeled and Seeded
- 4 cups Romaine Lettuce, Washed and Trimmed
- 1/2 tsp McCormick Culinary ® Fennel Seed , Toasted and Finely Crushed
- 1/2 tsp McCormick Culinary ® Dill Weed
- Pinch McCormick Culinary ® Sea Salt Grinder
- 6 oz Club Soda, Chilled
Optional Garnishes | Serves 3 (8-ounce)
- Sliced Apples, Cut Paper-thin
- Small Romaine Leaves, From Center of Heart
- Fresh Dill
- Cucumber Ribbons (threat onto a short skewer)
- Edible Flowers
Procedure
Procedure
- Process apples, grapes, cucumber and lemon through juicer on low speed. Increase speed to high. Roll romaine leaves into a bundle and process through juicer. Stir in dill, fennel seed and salt.
- Refrigerate at least 1 hour. Whisk to mix; gently stir in club soda. Serve in tumblers with desired garnishes.
