Edible Paradise

Fruit-based “cool waters” are sold throughout Mexico from giant glass jars, their vivid hues as inviting as their luscious flavors. Almost any ripe fruit—cantaloupe, pineapple,mango, watermelon, papaya, and more—is transformed into a refreshing cool drink by simply puréeing it with water and sugar. Feel free to combine fruits; one delicious blend is pineapple-cucumber.

INGREDIENTS:

3 cups fresh fruit chunks
2 limes, juiced
3 cups water
3 tablespoons sugar
Pinch of salt

Place ingredients in a blender and puree until very smooth. Chill. Serve over ice.

YIELD: Makes 1 quart.

SOURCE: Recipe courtesy of Betsy McNair; Mexicocina, the Spirit and Style of the Mexican Kitchen