What’s more refreshing than a big chilled wedge of watermelon on a hot, summer day? This Chia fresca of course!

Chia fresca–or chia lemonade–is a traditional mexican drink made from soaked chia seeds combined with water or citrus juice. It’s an incredibly wholesome, thirst quenching option on a hot summer day and is made even more refreshing with the added watermelon and basil recipe below.

Makes 8 servings:

  • 1.5 cup vodka, gin or rum (optional)
  • 6 tablespoons chia seeds
  • 
6 cups watermelon
  • 10 fresh basil leaves
  • 1 cup fresh squeezed lime Juice
  • 1 cup *hibiscus syrup

Combine the chia seeds and water in a glass and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to sit for ten minutes. Stir once more and set aside for another ten minutes.

Place all ingredients in a blender, including the chia mixture, and blend until well combined. Pour into a pitcher and mix with your choice of spirit. Serve over ice.

Super Food Spotlight:

The unassuming chia adds fiber, omega fatty acids, calcium, antioxidants and even protein to this lovely elixir. It’s no wonder the Aztecs and Mayans considered chia seeds to be magical, increasing stamina and energy over long periods of time. 

The watermelon packs quite an impressive nutritional punch as well. This melon is high in vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, fiber, protein, and a very large amount of potassium. Furthermore, they contain vitamin A, vitamin B6, niacin, thiamin, and a wide variety of carotenoids and phytonutrients, including lycopene.