We all know that we should drink more water – something of which
both moms and doctors like to us. However, in a sea of fancy juices and
sodas, switching to plain water can be anticlimactic. At Whittier Hospital
Medical Center, we don’t believe you should compromise on taste
to stay hydrated. Water can be just as delicious, if not more so, than
other drinks if you know how to amplify it. By infusing water with some
fruit, herbs, and vegetable, you can transform regular H2O into something
extraordinary. The best part is they’re easy to make. Check out
the recipes below for some tasty twists to regular water.
Grapefruit Rosemary Infused Water
There is nothing quite as refreshing as pairing citrus and herbs together
– a common theme you’ll find with the rest of the recipes.
The combination of rosemary and grapefruit creates a light, aromatic flavor
bound to make any drink better.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 grapefruit
- 1/2 sprig of fresh rosemary
- 32 oz. of water
Directions:
Peel the rind away from the grapefruit and cut the fruit into cubes. By
slicing horizontally, instead of against the grain, you release more juice
and flavor. Fill your pitcher or infuser water bottle and fill have of
it with water. The fruit into the bottle and top it off with the rest
of the water. Let the water set for 2 hours at room temperature and up
to 24 hours in the fridge. However, take the rosemary out after four hours,
so as not to have that flavor dominate the water.
Cucumber Lemon Cilantro Infused Water
Cucumbers, lemons, and cilantro are common ingredients in everyone’s
refrigerator and they’re usually the first things to go bad. If
you do have these ingredients laying around, use them in this delicious
water recipe.
Ingredients:
- ½ lemon
- 2” of cucumber
- 6 sprigs of cilantro with stems
- 3 quarts of water
Direction:
Cut the top of the lemon off, trying to remove as much of the white rind
as possible. Then slice the cucumber and lemons into ¼”.
Take your infuser water bottler or pitcher and layer the ingredients.
Add to the water and let infuse for up to 8 hours in the fridge. Take
out and enjoy!
Strawberry, Basil, & Cucumber Infused Water
Strawberries and basil are the dream team when it comes to tickling your
taste buds. Add in a cucumber and your infused water will be almost too
delicious. Enjoy this during a warm summer day or on a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
- 1 strawberry
- 3 basil leaves
- 3” cucumber
- 24 oz. of water
Directions:
Slice the strawberry, roughly chop the basil leaves, and slice the cucumber
into 3-5 sections. Add the ingredients into your favorite Mason jar and
mix. Because of the vibrant flavors, you only have to wait 5 minutes before
you can enjoy your water. Pop in some ice for added freshness.
Pineapple Ginger Infused Water
Pineapples are sweet and tasty, while ginger adds a spicy kick. When you
pair these two ingredients together, not only do you get water that is
delicious, but one that helps your stomach.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of pineapple pieces
- 1” ginger piece
- 2 quarts of water
Directions:
Slice your pineapple into small cubes or pieces. Cut your ginger into thin
slices so that it can infuse the water quicker. Pic your favorite pitcher
and mason jar and mix the ingredients with water. Let infuse for an hour
and serve over ice.
Some Tips When Infusing Water
Infusing your water is one of the easiest things to do. Pick your favorite
fruits, vegetables, and herbs and mix them together. But while there is
no right or wrong way to naturally flavor water, we have found that some
things work better than others.
Here are some tips to make the most of your infused water:
- Invest in an infused water bottle for flavored water on the go.
- Buy organic ingredients, when possible, for clearer flavors.
- Use cold or room temperature water.
- Crush ingredients like ginger, lemongrass, and rosemary to release flavors.
- Loosen flowers and herbs.
- Don’t infuse water for longer than 2 hours at room temperature. Any
more time, you should place it in the fridge to protect the integrity
of the ingredients.
With these infused water recipes, you’ll forget about sodas and juices
ever existed. They taste good while being good for you. So go ahead and drink up!
This article contains general information about medical conditions and
treatments. The information is not advice and should not be treated as
such. The information is not intended to replace the advice or diagnosis
of a physician.
If you have any specific questions about any medical matter you should
consult your doctor or other professional healthcare provider.