Drinking water doesn’t have to be a chore ~ infusing water with fresh flavors is the secret to staying hydrated ~ and loving it!
Today’s post is all about the wonderful world of infused water
When you think about it, water is the common denominator running through everything I do here in the Great Island kitchen, so it’s about time I gave it some attention. But rarely do I enjoy water for water’s sake. I’ve never found it pleasurable to drink, and I’ve tried everything from fancy water filters to leaving a giant glass out on the counter to remind me. The whole concept of infused water has been a game changer for me.
did you know?
Water plays a vital role in so many bodily functions, including regulating temperature, lubricating joints, transporting nutrients, supporting digestion, and flushing out waste. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, dizziness, decreased concentration, and even more severe problems. Staying well hydrated is an essential part of staying healthy!
my personal journey to better hydration
First, I purchased a new water bottle.
I was drawn in by the pretty colors and the feel of the silicone sleeve hugging the curvy glass. I brought it home, washed it, filled it, and fell head over heels in love. I drank more water in the following days than ever before in my life! I don’t know if it’s the glass, the flip up straw, the way it cradles in the grip of my hand, or what, but this bottle makes plain water a pleasure to drink. There’s no plastic ‘taste’ or worry about chemicals leaching into it, and it goes right in the dishwasher. This is the one I bought, the 16 oz size with the straw top, in lavender, and I think it’s just perfect. I carry it with me everywhere, we’re inseparable š
Then I discovered that water doesn’t have to taste like…water!
Water can still be water, but so much better, and I’m not talking about adding sugar, or juice, or additives…I’m talking pure flavor. Flavor that comes from infusing the water with various combinations of fruits, herbs, and other natural ingredients. Keep in mind these aren’t sweet like we’re conditioned to expect from flavored beverages, but they do have pleasant subtle flavor that helps make plain water so much more interesting.
how to make infused water…
- Fill a glass jar or pitcher with fresh water.
- Add your flavor enhancers. Fruits, veggies, fresh herbs and spices are all possibilities. It’s important to cut or slightly crush the ingredients in order to allow the flavors to mingle with the water.
- Infuse at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Allow at least an hour, preferably more, to allow the flavors to develop.
- Strain* and enjoy.
*You can add fresh fruit back into your infused water for extra flavor and a gorgeous presentation.
glass is best for infusing water
Glass is preferred over plastic for making fruit-infused waters because:
- Taste and Odor: Plastic can sometimes affect the taste and smell of the water, while glass is non-reactive and maintains the water’s original flavor.
- Health: Glass is free from chemicals like BPA and phthalates that can leach into the water from plastic containers.
- Durability: Glass is more resistant to scratches, stains, and retaining flavors compared to plastic.
- Visual Appeal: Glass allows the vibrant colors of the infused water to be showcased, enhancing the drinking experience.
- Environmental Impact: Glass is reusable and recyclable, making it a more eco-friendly option than single-use plastic bottles.
I used 1 litre glass juice bottles from Weck. They’re elegant enough to serve from, and there’s nothing prettier than a lineup of jars filled with different flavored waters. Every time I pour myself a drink, I top off the jar and I can keep the infusion going for a few days in the fridge.
There are endless flavor combinations for infused water so get creative!
You’ve probably had plain lemon or cucumber water before, but I like to push the envelope just a little bit. One of my favorite discoveries is Strawberry Jalapeno Water. You can customize the amount of heat by how much of the pepper you add, but oh my word it’s a delicious experience! To make it, slice up a few ripe strawberries, you can leave the stem end intact, and slice up a jalapeno pepper. Leave out the seeds if you’re timid. Add it to your water and let it infuse for a couple of hours either in the fridge or at room temperature. Serve it over ice for a fascinating sensation of cooling heat.
cardamom rose is another creative pairing and a classic Middle Easter duo ~ use the petals from un-sprayed roses (they can be right from your garden) and whole cardamom pods. Roll over the pods with a rolling pin to crack them open and release the seeds.
don’t give up your infused water in the cooler months
I made a Cinnamon Pear and a Persimmon Clove water to prove you don’t have to give up on infusing once fall rolls around. You’ll find lots of ways to keep it going year round, think apples, cranberries, and warm spices.
fruit infused ice!
You can get double duty out of your water if you freeze flavor right into your ice cubes! I like to use flexible silicone ice cube trays for this, the cubes come out perfect every time. My jumbo King Cube Tray is big enough for whole strawberries.
There are no set recipes for infused water
Add as little or as much of the flavoring ingredients as you like. Use a single flavor, or mix and match, the choice is up to you.
flavor pairing suggestions
- rosemary grapefruit
- cantaloupe lime
- kiwi tangerine
- lemongrass mint
- cherry lime
- blueberry nectarine
- raspberry peach
- lemon ginger
- cucumber mint
- blackberry sage
- guava lime
- pineapple mango
tips for making fruit infused water
- Choose fresh, ripe fruits that are in season for the best flavor and aroma. This will ensure that your infused water has a vibrant and refreshing taste.
- Wash fruit thoroughly before adding fruits to your infused water to remove any dirt, pesticides, or residues.
- Cut the fruits into small, thin slices or cubes. This will allow the flavors to infuse more easily into the water.
- Consider crushing or muddling fruit like berries for a more pronounced flavor.
- You can add a touch of sweetness or acidity to your infused water. For sweetness, consider adding a small amount of honey, agave nectar, or stevia. For acidity, a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice can do the trick.
- Enjoy within a day or two: Fruit-infused water is best consumed within a day or two for optimal freshness and flavor.
Healthy Fruit Infused Water
Equipment
- large glass container or pitcher
Ingredients
- 16 ounces filtered water
Fruit of your choice, washed
- strawberries, halved
- watermelon, or any other melons, cut in chunks
- fresh pineapple, cut in chunks
- jalapeƱos (yes, they're a fruit!) sliced
- any citrus fruit, sliced, no need to peel
- stone fruit such as peaches or plums, cut in wedges
- cucumbers, sliced
Herbs and whole spices of your choice
- mint leaves
- basil
- cinnamon stick
- whole cloves
- cardamom pods
- star anise
- fresh ginger
Instructions
- Fill a glass container with water and add the fruit and/or herbs and spices of your choice. Refer to the post for suggested combinations.
- Let the water infuse for at least an hour or up to 24 hours, in the refrigerator. Strain and serve.
We have a hot weekend ahead and I want to live by the pool/sip on these refreshing and gorgeous waters!
Hi,
I have been over the top busy and trying to get back to this post. It is really great and hope to join your water ways this evening. I could use a new bottle too.
What a fantastic post! I will admit to suffering from plain water fatigue on a daily basis around here. I just love these recipes and that rose and cardamom combination so totally floats my boat!
I can see how that beautiful bottle would help you drink more water every day, Sue! I love all of your infused waters. They look so beautiful and refreshing. I can’t help staring that the gorgeous ice cube with the strawberry in it!
I love this company and agree completely on infusing water to make it more drinkable. Great post and giveaway Sue!
Amazing pictures! The essence of refreshment. Brava!
I have two of these bottles in green – love them!
The photos are gorgeous and I especially love the strawberry in the giant ice cube. On my way to check out the glass Weck bottles–thanks!
What a great way to motivate us all to drink more water. I know I NEVER drink enough!
And getting off the sugary drinks is good for everyone!
Thanks for these great ideas.
these are breathtakingly beautiful pictures, and of water! you’ve given me some great ideas!