Cantaloupe Shoot Microgreens Refresher
The History of Aqua Frescas
Aqua frescas, also known as aguas frescas, have a storied history that dates back to ancient civilizations in Central America and Mexico. These refreshing drinks are made by blending fruits, flowers, or herbs with water and sweetening them to taste.
Indigenous civilizations like the Aztecs and Mayans created these beverages using local ingredients… and you know we love local! They would combine fruits like melons, papayas, and guavas with water and sweet ingredients like honey or agave nectar.
Aqua frescas were often sold by street vendors and in markets, but over time developed a cultural significance and made their way into celebrations and gatherings. They are a staple in Mexican cuisine and are cherished for their ability to quench thirst in hot climates.
Aqua frescas have endured for centuries due to their simplicity, versatility, and ability to capture the flavors of the regions where they originated.
We like them because they’re enjoyable, offer amazing taste and refreshment, and are made with whole food ingredients.
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About Cantaloupe Microgreens
Cantaloupe microgreens are the newest addition to our microgreen product lineup! And we’re excited about them for good reason! These tiny greens are harvested at an early stage of cantaloupe growth, just a few inches tall, and are bursting with concentrated flavor and nutrition. With tender green leaves and a subtle hint of the cantaloupe's signature sweetness, they offer a unique and refreshing flavor. Cantaloupe shoot microgreens are on the sweet side so they pair well with all sorts of beverages and can also be used in a variety of dishes as well. As with all microgreens, they’re not just delicious, they’re also packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They make any drink or meal more vibrant and visually appealing! Use as a garnish or ingredient in salads, appetizers, and a variety of drinks and dishes. Incorporating these miniature greens into your kitchen creations is not only a flavorful delight but also a nutritious choice that showcases the versatility of cantaloupes in a fresh and innovative way.
How to Make these Awesome Cantaloupe Microgreens Refreshers
You’ll need a blender and the finest sieve you’ve got in the house.
Ingredients
1 whole cantaloupe, cubed in 1 inch chunks
4 cups ice cold spring water
2 limes, juiced
1/4 cup loose cantaloupe shoot microgreens
Instructions
Peel, seed, and cube the cantaloupe.
Blend the cantaloupe cubes and spring water in the blender.
Pour cantaloupe and water mixture through a fine sieve in a pitcher.
Mix in the lime juice.
Stir and serve over ice.
Notes:
Hold a few slices of cantaloupe off to the side to use as garnish if desired.
The cantaloupe we used for this recipe was super-ripe, which gave us a naturally sweet flavor without adding sugar, honey, etc. If your fruit isn’t as ripe, feel free to add the sweetener of your choice to achieve the desired flavor.
If your blender is on the small side, blend the cantaloupe cubes and water in proportional batches instead of all at once.
Present this Cantaloupe Microgreen Aqua Fresca Like a Pro
Pulp It Up!
For some added texture, add a bit of the pulp back to the pitcher, or…
Freeze the pulp in ice cube trays and use the ice cubes along with this aqua fresca, or keep them in the freezer for use at another time!
Blend in Cantaloupe Shoot Microgreens
Our cantaloupe shoot microgreens are a garnish in the photos, but for added texture feel free to blend some into this aqua fresca if desired!
Season the Glass Rims
Pour something sticky in a bowl just a bit larger than your glasses. Extra lime juice is a great option.
Turn glasses upside down and dip the rims in the bowl.
Roll the glass rims in your choice of salt, sugar, or a spicy blend… like taco or chipotle seasoning.
Garnish, Garnish, Garnish
Garnish with fresh slices of cantaloupe fruit and cantaloupe microgreens!
Dress it Up
Add something bubbly of your choice… club soda, sparkling water, etc.
Aqua frescas aren’t just for Central America and Mexico any more! Restaurants and cafes offer a variety of aqua frescas that feature flavors like cucumber-lime, mango, and watermelon. The best part is they’re easy to make at home, they’re made with natural and fresh ingredients, and they’re a tasty and much healthier alternative to the sugary drinks that line grocery store shelves. If following this recipe is your first foray in the aqua fresca world, we’re sure it won’t be your last! Enjoy!
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