Watermelon water (agua de sandia)

4 to 6 cups watermelon chunks, with rind and seeds removed (see note)

Water

½ cup sugar (optional)

Few drops lemon or lime juice (optional)

Place the watermelon in a blender with 3 cups water and blend until smooth. Pour into a gallon pitcher and add more water to make a gallon of beverage.

Taste and add sugar if necessary, stirring until dissolved. If the watermelon is not quite at its peak and the flavor needs brightening, add lemon or lime juice to taste. Chill. Stir before serving.

Note: You can use a seedless melon or blend with the seeds and let the debris settle to the blender's bottom before pouring the puree into the pitcher.