Summer Harvest Infused Water
Have you ever tried Infused Water? My preferred beverage of choice is pure water and I drink glasses of it daily. Don’t give it to me lukewarm or I’ll never touch it. Fill it to the brim with ice and I can’t get enough of it.
I find it hard to believe since I’m such a fan of H2O that many find it a challenge to drink even a single glass in a day. They say it’s “boring” and “tasteless” so what’s the point? The point is it’s great for our bodies, keeping us hydrated, and flushing it of any toxins. When you’re hydrated you feel good inside and out and your skin will too.
Have you ever gone to a spa and while in the “relaxing” or “calming” room they offer Infused Water with slices of cucumber or lemons in it? I find it so refreshing, and for me it has a calming effect.
I’d like to say I invented Infused Water, but I didn’t. However, I enjoy coming up with flavor combinations that maybe no one has thought of. If that were the case then maybe I invented this Infused Water blend.
Coming up with variations is quite simple. Create a list of your favorite fruits, veggies, and herbs. Think about which ones would compliment each other or go out on a limb and try something exotic or spicy like:
- jalapenos
- pablanos
- chili peppers
Why not some herbs such as:
- lavender
- cilantro
- cardamon
- fennel
- rosemary
What about fun fruits like:
- kiwi
- cherries
- mango
- dragon fruit
Of course it doesn’t have to be exotic or spicy to taste good. The blend I’ve created here were with ingredients I had on hand. I simply added in my sliced fruits, veggies and herbs. I filled a glass pitcher with water, gave it a good stir, and refrigerated it for about 3 hours. OMG you have no idea how refreshing this is!
Glass is key to infusing water for a pure flavor vs. putting everything into a plastic pitcher that could leach other flavors into the water. If you have the choice choose glass over plastic – plus it’s better for you!
I hope you’ll try my refreshing blend of Summer Harvest Infused Water I think you’ll love it! Don’t take my word for it though, try it for yourself. I’d love to hear what you think.
Oh and by the way, Infused Water is ideal after a long hard workout – it definitely quenches your thirst!
Raspberry, Lemon, Watermelon, Cucumber, and Basil Infused Water
Ingredients:
- Glass pitcher or Jar
- Watermelon, cubed (1-2 handfuls depending on size of pitcher)
- Fresh Raspberries (6-8 oz.)
- English Cucumber, sliced (to scatter in pitcher & garnish)
- Fresh Lemon, sliced
- Basil leaves, 3-4 or more if desired
Directions:
- Glass is key to infusing water for a pure flavor. Fill pitcher with water.
- Add vegetables, fruits, and herbs, or be creative and come up with your own combinations.
- Using a long spoon, stir to start the infusion. Place pitcher into refrigerator for 2-3 hours for optimal flavor.
- Serve: Add additional ingredients to each individual glass, then pour chilled infused water into glasses. Garnish with lemon & cucumber.
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Hi, I’m Vicki Bensinger! I have been teaching culinary classes throughout Missouri since 1992. I offer personalized private culinary classes for individuals and small groups in the comfort of your home or organization.
So fun and pretty !
Thank you Angie!
I drink lots of water — good stuff, isn’t it? I’ve added lemon to it, sometimes, but that’s about as far as I’ve ever gotten in infusing it. Should try some of your ideas — they’re fun! Thanks!
It’s amazing how great infused water can be. Use whatever you have at home to test the water so to speak. The combinations are endless.
I seem to only make infused water when we have guests….and I’m pretty simplistic with cucumbers and/or citrus. I’m going to add more fruits next time—you’ve inspired me with your beautiful pitcher!
The pitcher is from Crate & Barrel. I should have posted that. Don’t forget to add some herbs, it really does make a difference.
This is gorgeous, and even though I’m one of those that has to remind myself to drink my water, I wouldn’t have any trouble with this around!
It’s very flavorful, I think you’d find yourself going back for seconds and thirds, then refilling the pitcher again and again.
You are so right, this could be the difference between drinking water and REALLY enjoying drinking water.