Watermelon Agua Fresca

Ingredients

• 8 cups cubed seeded watermelon (about 6 pounds with the rind), divided
• 1 cup water, divided
• 1/3 cup sugar, divided
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1 liter (4 cups) club soda or seltzer water, well chilled
• Lime slices for garnish

Directions

Combine half the watermelon, half the water and half the sugar in a blender; puree. Pour through a coarse strainer into a large container. Repeat with the remaining watermelon, water and sugar. Stir in lime juice. Refrigerate until well chilled, about 4 hours.

To serve, stir in club soda (or seltzer) and garnish with lime.