As summer’s scorching temperatures hit new heights, staying properly hydrated becomes a top priority. While I’m not exactly a water connoisseur myself – plain water doesn’t really do it for me unless I’m parched – I’ve learned to appreciate the benefits of flavored water. To give my H2O a flavor boost, I like to keep things simple by adding ice and fresh fruits, vegetables, or herbs to a pitcher, letting it chill in the fridge for a couple of hours before serving.
When I’m feeling more adventurous, I’ll even whip up some bubbly goodness using my soda maker. If you’re new to flavored water, don’t worry – below are some of my go-to recipes to get you started. So grab a glass and toast to staying hydrated!
Flavored Water Drinks
Strawberries and Lime
My affection for strawberries runs deep, from my crown to my toes. The fleeting strawberry season in our area begins early and ends abruptly, leaving me with a sense of loss. While I do preserve some for later enjoyment, by mid-September, they’ve vanished, and my thoughts shift towards the likes of pumpkin. That said, this recipe’s citrusy twist adds a delightful zing, making it a refreshing treat during the transition from strawberry sweetness to autumnal delights.
Lemon and Basil
As I embarked on growing my own basil last summer, I was astonished by its remarkable growth rate – it thrives in warm weather. One simple way I utilized some of my bounty was by crafting basil-infused water. The concept is closely tied to lemon water’s widespread popularity in the United States, making it a relatable choice for incorporating lemon into this refreshing beverage alongside the pungent flavor of basil.
Cucumber and Lemon
On my first attempt at trying this delightful brew, I was fortunate enough to experience it at Williams-Sonoma. The slender slices presented a charming appearance, which only added to the refreshing flavor profile. So captivated was I that I returned for a second serving before departing, and later, I revisited the farmers market in search of lemon trees, followed by a trip to my own kitchen where I savored this delightful beverage with dinner.
Williams-Sonoma’s contribution to this lovely experience is greatly appreciated.
Orange and Kiwi
Imagine sipping on a glass of revitalizing goodness, infused with the sweet flavors of oranges and kiwis. The mere thought is tantalizing, isn’t it? As you envision this refreshing beverage, your thirst becomes almost palpable. And yet, why should mornings get to have all the fun?
Blueberries and Mint
With an abundance of blueberries and mint growing in my garden, I’ve found myself creating this refreshing treat on a regular basis. This flavorful combination not only utilizes my garden’s bounty but also satisfies my family’s cravings, with even my children requesting more of this delightful blend.
Honey and Lemon
When you’re not just seeking relief from the heat, but also trying to soothe a sore throat, this comforting concoction comes into its own. Simply combine equal parts of honey and water in the microwave for two minutes, then stir in some freshly squeezed lemon juice. As the mixture cools, you’ll be left with a soothing drink that’s as gentle on your throat as it is easy to prepare.
Strawberries and Basil
As soon as the sweet and tangy flavors of the strawberries and basil meld together, it’s a sensory delight that awakens the palate. Moreover, this harmonious fusion not only tantalizes the taste buds but also pleases the visual senses, making for an altogether satisfying experience.
Mango, Cucumber, and Ginger
If you’re looking for a flavorful and effective remedy to soothe an upset stomach without relying on conventional medications like Pepto Bismol, this recipe is worth trying. The unique blend of ingredients not only provides a boost to your immune system but also helps alleviate digestion issues. The star of the show is ginger, which has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease stomach discomfort and promote a sense of calm.
By incorporating this recipe into your daily routine, you can say goodbye to lingering symptoms and hello to a happier gut.
Grapes, Raspberries, and Cucumbers
Ginger, Cucumber, and Lemon
The combination of these three elements will effectively address your longing for sugar. It’s likely that our desire for sugar stems from a craving for flavor, which sugar satisfies, just as salt does its part in bringing out savory flavors. What’s more, by incorporating these recipes without adding excessive sugars to your drinks, you’ll be able to indulge in a wealth of flavor without compromising your weight loss goals or overloading on unwanted sweeteners.
Lemon and Mint
While the notion of starting your day with a glass of lemon water and repeating the process before retiring for the night might seem like an old wives’ tale, there’s some substance to this practice. Drinking lemon water can give your metabolism a gentle nudge in the right direction, helping you feel more energized throughout the day.
Blood Orange and Mango
While the blood orange brings a pop of color to this drink, it also infuses the beverage with a distinctive tanginess. For those who crave a hint of acidity, reminiscent of a glass of freshly squeezed OJ, this concoction is sure to hit the spot.
Lemon and Raspberry
When I’m in the mood for lemonade but want to skip the added sweetness, this is my top choice. The harmonious blend of lemon and raspberry flavors really hits the spot. As spring approaches, I often find myself craving Arnold Palmers – a refreshing mix of tea and lemonade. While we used to enjoy sweet tea, my husband and I made the switch two and a half years ago. We simply stopped adding sugar and stuck with unsweetened brews from then on.
Watermelon
Adding watermelon to your blender is a refreshing twist on a classic treat. Did you know that watermelons are made up of an impressive 95% water content? Given my personal indifference towards watermelons, I find myself whipping them up for the ladies in my life. To create these tasty slushies, simply combine water and refrigerated watermelon slices with your blender’s mixing prowess.
Peaches with a Splash of Vanilla
Peaches are a delightful mid-summer indulgence that never fail to put a smile on my face. The simple act of slicing them up, storing them in the refrigerator, and then later combining them with water and a hint of vanilla extract is a refreshing way to not only quench my thirst but also satisfy my sweet cravings.
Peaches and Mint
Sipping on sparkling water, sans the wine, is an unexpectedly delightful experience. The first time I indulged in this ritual, I prepared it before dinner and then savored it later that evening, adding a touch of elegance to my routine. Although it’s just plain water, the sensory details and subtle nuances transformed me into a connoisseur for a brief moment.
Lemon and Lavender
While I’m still experimenting with lavender in my recipes, I must admit that it’s a unique ingredient that has taken some getting used to. Initially, I was skeptical about incorporating flowers into my drinks, but I’ve come to appreciate the subtle flavor profile that lavender brings. If you’re looking to shake up your culinary routine and try something new, I encourage you to give this a shot. However, if you prefer sticking to tried-and-true flavors, you might want to hold off on this one.
Cherry and Lime
Imagine sipping on a refreshing glass of cherry limeade, sans sugar, if you please. For me, the deal is sealed! A personal touch I bring to this recipe is pitting my cherries and cutting them in half for an extra burst of flavor. And let’s be honest, adding a splash of sparkling water takes it to the next level – most times, that is!
Orange and Vanilla
As I craft my signature orange infused water, I often reserve it as a special morning indulgence. The subtle addition of vanilla extract, however, yields an unexpected yet delightful flavor reminiscent of an orange creamsicle. This unique twist proves particularly appealing to my girls, who eagerly devour the refreshing beverage after spending time in their grandfather’s natural pool on sunny afternoons.
Lemon, Lime, and Orange
While being perfect as an occasional treat, this recipe also excels at providing a refreshing beverage throughout the day. The combination of citruses in the water creates a harmonious balance between sweet and tangy flavors, making it an ideal choice to sip on at any time.
Orange and Fennel
When it comes to the aroma of fennel, there’s no denying its distinctive scent, often likened to that of black licorice. While the fragrance may not be everyone’s cup of tea, those who appreciate its pungency will be pleased to know that the flavor profile is equally as impressive. If you’re a fan of black licorice’s unique aroma, then fennel is definitely worth considering. Conversely, if the smell isn’t to your liking, there are plenty of alternative options to explore.
Apple Cinnamon Water
In my scorching hot state, where summer’s warmth lingers until mid-October, embracing autumnal vibes can be a challenge. To get in the mood, I take two approaches: crafting frozen hot chocolate reminiscent of Serendipity’s New York City classic and brewing apple cinnamon water. The latter requires an extra step – infusing the liquid for at least eight hours, then straining it through a tea towel or cheesecloth to remove any lingering cinnamon particles.
If you’re okay with a bit of texture, you can skip this step altogether. However, I prefer my beverage smooth, so I take the time to separate and re-add the chopped apples.
Strawberries and Blueberries
Summer is a prime time for showcasing American pride, with three significant patriotic holidays taking center stage. The season kicks off with Memorial Day, followed by the iconic Fourth of July celebrations, and culminates with Labor Day. This trifecta of festivities provides ample opportunities to express national spirit while indulging in refreshing treats.
Blackberries and Lime
As the summer months unfolded, my daughters stumbled upon a lush blackberry bush tucked away at their Aunt’s house. Enthusiastic about their discovery, they enthusiastically gathered a bounty of plump berries. My eldest daughter was particularly fond of them, prompting me to return with an empty container to collect more for our treat-making endeavors.
It’s always delightful to engage in culinary experiments, especially when the girls’ faces light up at the thought of indulging in something new and delicious.
Cucumber, Lime, and Basil
While our previous recipes have explored various color palettes, this one offers a unique twist by focusing on a single hue. The benefits of infusing water with a single color are twofold: not only do you receive the photochemicals inherent to that color, but you also experience a depth and dimensionality that’s absent in multi-colored drinks.
Take the cucumber, lime, and basil recipe for instance – here, the subtle contrast between the dark green of the basil and the bright yellow-green of the lime creates a visually appealing combination.
Strawberry, Lime, and Cinnamon
While touted as a ‘fat detox’ drink, this concoction’s efficacy is questionable for me. The cinnamon, however, does possess digestion-aiding properties – a welcome benefit. That being said, the remainder of the ingredients elicit a lukewarm reaction from me. Fortunately, the drink’s flavor profile is pleasant, making it an enjoyable sipping experience. As with any cinnamon-based beverage, I recommend straining the mixture before consumption to ensure optimal enjoyment.
An Everything Drink
As we wrap up this article, it’s essential to emphasize that the key lies in your personal taste preferences. Many of the unconventional recipes I’ve shared have become unexpected hits with my family members, including my kids and husband, who can’t get enough. Feel free to experiment with unique flavor combinations like strawberry-lime-cinnamon or stick to more classic pairings like strawberry-lemon.
Don’t be afraid to think outside the box – consider freezing blended fruit in an ice cube tray for a refreshing twist or blending your favorite fruits, veggies, and herbs into a slushy treat that’s perfect for hot summer days. The choice is ultimately yours!
