5 Creative Ways to Flavor Water

In the summer months, water is more important than ever. Because of the summer heat, we have a tendency to sweat more and even lose more water through our breath. The best way to prevent dehydration is to drink even when you are not thirsty. Thirst may be a sign that you are already dehydrated. 

Here are some ways to add a little flavor zing to your water. There are no rules or set amounts. Flavor to your own taste - be creative! 

Basil and Blueberries

Rinse basil and blueberries under cool running water. Crush blueberries and place into a water pitcher. Leave the basil on the sprig and add to the water. Allow to sit for a few hours in the refrigerator. The longer it sits, the greater the taste. The infused water will keep up to three days and you may reuse the fruit by adding more water to the pitcher.

Cucumber and Mint

Rinse the mint and cucumbers under cool running water. Thinly slice the cucumbers and place into a water pitcher. The greater the surface area of the cucumbers, the quicker the water will be flavored. Leave the mint on the sprig and add to the water. Allow to sit for a few hours in the refrigerator. The longer it sits, the greater the taste. The infused water will keep up to three days and you may reuse the fruit by adding more water to the pitcher.

Watermelon and Mint

Cube the watermelon and place into a water pitcher. The greater the surface area of the fruit, the quicker the water will be flavored. Leave the mint on the sprig and add to the water. Allow to sit for a few hours in the refrigerator. The longer it sits, the greater the taste. The infused water will keep up to three days and you may reuse the fruit by adding more water to the pitcher.

Strawberries and Sugar-free Lemonade

Rinse strawberries under cool running water. Using a cheese grater, grate the strawberries into a water pitcher. Squirt in a few drops of sugar-free lemonade. You can use products like Crystal Light or Dasani Drops. For another alternative, add thinly sliced lemons instead. Allow to sit for a few hours in the refrigerator. The longer it sits, the greater the taste. The infused water will keep up to three days and you may reuse the fruit by adding more water to the pitcher.

Infused Ice Cubes

Looking to keep cool? Add any well-cut fruit and herb mix directly to your ice cube tray. Pour boiling water over; allowing it to cool before placing it into the freezer. Hot water penetrates the fruit, vegetable or herb to release the flavorful aromatic compound—giving you the most amount of flavor from each cube.

Source: Froedtert & Medical College of Wisconsin