Refreshing Papaya Agua Fresca made with water, lime juice and honey is incredibly delicious and the perfect nonalcoholic drink for summer!

I’ve teamed up with Super Starr Papaya to share today’s recipe. Their papaya has a super sweet flavor, available all year round making it perfect for your agua de papaya anytime of the year – not just summer!

We had this local Mexican stand in West Orange County that served up the best street tacos, street snacks like esquites – and all kinds of Agua Frescas! Right now, they’re closed looking for a new home outside Orlando, and we miss them dearly! Until they’re back I’ve started making my own aqua frescas at home with fresh papaya chunks using Super Starr Papaya.

Agua Frescas are just blended fruit with water, sugar or honey. It’s perfect on a hot day (it was 93 degrees yesterday; ugh), and it’s a great nonalcoholic bevy with friends! I like to serve it with fish tacos, or flank steak with street corn salad.

ingredients for papaya agua fresca

Papaya Agua Fresca (or Agua de Papaya) comes together with just a handful of simple ingredients for the most refreshing tropical drink.

Papaya: Fresh papaya chunks give this agua fresca its naturally sweet, tropical flavor and vibrant color.
Water: Filtered cold water helps blend everything into a light and refreshing drink.
Sweetener: Honey adds a smooth, floral sweetness. Traditionally, agua fresca is made with sugar, but I personally prefer honey here.
Lime Juice: Optional, but highly recommended. A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a subtle brightness that ties all the flavors together.

Can I add other fruit to papaya agua fresca?

Absolutely. Mango, pineapple, strawberries, or watermelon pair especially well with papaya.

Do I need to strain papaya agua fresca?

No, straining is optional. If you prefer a smoother drink, you can strain the blended mixture through a fine mesh sieve before serving.

How long does agua fresca last in the refrigerator?

Papaya agua fresca is best enjoyed within 1-2 days for the freshest flavor and texture.

Store it covered in the refrigerator and stir well before serving, as natural separation may occur.
For the best flavor, wait to pour it over ice until you’re ready to serve so it doesn’t become watered down.