Aqua Fresca di Frutta

Directions

1 large cantaloupe or 1/2 a watermelon, seeded and diced (about 3 cups)

1 1/2 cups water

1/2 cup sugar, plus more to taste

2 to 3 limes, juiced

Pinch salt

Puree cantaloupe or watermelon in a food processor and pour through a fine sieve to eliminate pulp. In a pitcher, mix strained fruit puree with water and add sugar, lime juice, and salt, to taste.

Chef's Note: This and other similar fruit drinks, which translate literally as "fresh water," are served all over Mexico and they're a cinch to replicate at home. The key is to strain the pulpy fruit to make a clearer liquid. Instead of melon, you could use strawberries, pineapple, mango, or any fruit that is soft enough to puree.