Melon Agua Fresca

• 1 large melon, cut into 1-in chunks (should be equivalent to 8 c)
• 2 tbsp sugar, or as needed
• 2 tbsp lime juice, freshly squeezed (can add more if needed)
• 1 ½ c chilled club soda or water
• Mint sprigs, for serving

Purée melon in a food processor or blender. Add 2 tbsp sugar and 2 tbsp lime juice and process to dissolve sugar. Taste and add more sugar or lime juice if needed. Transfer to a large pitcher. Cover and refrigerate until well chilled, at least 2 hours or overnight.

Just before serving, stir in club soda. Serve chilled, and garnish each serving with a mint sprig, if using.

Honeydew Agua Fresca: Substitute 8 c ripe honeydew melon chunks (1 small honeydew melon) for cantaloupe.

Mango or Peach Agua Fresca: Substitute 8 c ripe mango chunks or peach slices (about 8 mangoes or 10 peaches) for cantaloupe.

Strawberry Agua Fresca: Substitute 8 c stemmed and sliced strawberries for cantaloupe.