We are all drinking lots of water these days so why not hydrate in style with homemade flavored waters? As an over fifty woman I grew up drinking water from the tap. There were no other options available except maybe for a slice of lemon plopped in your water glass at the local diner. Today we have become much more selective in what we ingest and flavored waters are quite the rage. One of the main problems with pre-made store bought waters is that many contain added sugars or other ingredients you may not want. And they can be very expensive.
I have to admit that it took me awhile to get on the flavored water bandwagon. When I wanted to hydrate I would drink a bottle of spring water or the filtered water from my fridge or tap. But I recently decided to give them a try because of all the media hype. I tested lots of variations and have to admit that I’m hooked. These taste so incredibly delicious that I almost can’t bare drinking plain water anymore.
These waters are infused with subtle flavors but are not sweet. They are similar to the refreshing waters served at many spas and salons. I like to keep things simple so there is no cooking or blending in my recipes. I use fresh fruit, filtered water, ice and some recipes contain herbs or spices. It’s important to wash all ingredients thoroughly. You can use frozen fruit but I much prefer using very ripe fresh fruit. Today you can buy so much pre-cut fruit that making these waters is a snap. I use 16 ounce bottles for my waters which make them the perfect size to grab and go.
follow along with me...
The procedure for making the waters is exactly the same regardless of the flavor and ingredients. Put all of the fresh fruit in the bottle and then add the fresh herbs or spices. If using an herb, massage between your fingers before putting in the container to release the oil. Add about 1/2 cup of ice and fill bottle with filtered water. Place in the refrigerator and steep for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to develop. Sometimes I replace the ice with frozen fruit just to intensify the taste.
MIXED BERRY
1/2 cup sliced strawberries
1/2 cup raspberries
1/2 cup blueberries
ice & filtered water
MELON, KIWI & MINT
1 cup cantaloupe cut in small chunks
1 kiwi peeled and sliced
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
ice & filtered water
GRAPEFRUIT, STRAWBERRY & LEMON
1/2 cup sliced strawberries
1 lemon thinly sliced with rind on
1/2 small grapefruit thinly sliced with rind on
ice & filtered water
ORANGE, PINEAPPLE & GINGER
1/2 orange thinly sliced with rind on
1/2 cup cut up pineapple
6 slices peeled fresh ginger (you can add more ginger as I do if you like the taste)
ice & filtered water
