How to Make Healthy Flavored Water at Home

Summer is upon us and hot, super-sunny days are abundant. Between hiking, biking, running around, and those lazy days at a park, it is important to stay hydrated.  And honestly, sometimes plain old water just doesn’t cut it.

Fruit infused waters seem to be the trick! Infused waters are easy to make, nutritious, and refreshing. Simply use any fresh fruit (except bananas — they don't work well), herbs, and spices to flavor your once plain water to create a perfect summer drink.

Minty Cucumber Lime

1/2 a cucumber, sliced
1/2 a lime, sliced
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves

Strawberry-Lemon with Basil

1/2 cup sliced strawberries
1/2 a lemon, sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

Watermelon Mint

1 cup cubed watermelon
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves

Pineapple-Orange with Ginger

1/2 cup cubed pineapple
1/2 an orange, sliced
1 tablespoon freshly-grated ginger

What You’ll Need:

1-quart jars
Water
Wooden Spoon
Agave or another sweetener (optional)

What to Do:

1. Choose which recipe you're making — or come up with your own combination — and gather all of the ingredients.
2. Place the fruit, herbs, and/or spices in the bottom of one of the glass jars, and muddle with a wooden spoon. (basically mash up the fruit in the bottom of the jar to release some of the flavor-filled juices.)
3. Fill the jar with water and give it a taste. (You can also fill the jar with seltzer water for a fizzy treat.) If you'd like something a bit sweeter, try adding some agave (and mix until dissolved).
4. Enjoy as-is or refrigerate overnight for maximum flavor.

[via Greatist]