Watermelon Chia Fresca (Chia Seed Drink)

Looking for a refreshing way to stay hydrated this summer? This watermelon chia fresca is an easy homemade chia seed drink that blends fresh fruit, water, and lime for a cool, slightly tart beverage that’s naturally sweet and satisfying. It's inspired by the traditional Mexican drink known as agua de chia or chia fresca, but adds a juicy, fruity twist with watermelon.

Chia seeds might be small, but they pack a powerful nutritional punch. When soaked, they create a fun gel-like texture that adds a nice mouthfeel and a boost of fiber to your drink. Plus, their ability to absorb water makes them a natural hydrator, making this drink ideal for hot weather or post-exercise refreshment.

This homemade chia seed drink is quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and naturally vegan and gluten-free.

Ingredients

The ingredients for this summery mocktail or breakfast drink are pretty simple.

• Chia seeds - Look for them in the bulk section.
• Water - Whatever you normally use for drinking water is fine
• Seedless watermelon - You'll need about half of a melon (feel free to double the recipe and use the whole fruit)
• Fresh mint leaves - This adds all of the refreshing herb flavors.
• Lemon or lime - For a little brightness and acidity.
• Salt - Because everything's better with a little salt.

Instructions

There are three main steps to make this Watermelon Chia Fresca recipe.

• Prepare the chia gel
• Blend the fruit with mint and salt
• Mix the chia gel and the watermelon water together and serve

Stir chia seeds and water and set aside for about ten minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the chia seeds from separating from the water.

After about ten minutes, the chia water will thicken and form a gel.

Before you do anything with the chia water, add watermelon, mint, lemon or lime, and salt to your blender and blend on high until the mixture is smooth and liquidy.

At this point, you can pour in the chia gel and pulse a couple of times, or until the chia seeds are evenly mixed with the watermelon water.

To serve, divide the Chia Fresca between glasses and garnish with more fresh mint leaves if desired.

Can you make Watermelon Chia Fresca ahead of time? What's the best way to store it?

Chia Fresca is a great meal prep recipe to make in advance. Store Chia Fresca in a pitcher or jar with a lid and refrigerate for up to five days. 

Potential Ingredient Substitutions

• Instead of mint, try substituting fresh basil.

📖 Recipe