🧊 Recipe: Cucumber Lemon Mint Infused Water
🍋 Description:
This refreshing infused water combines crisp cucumber, tangy lemon, and cooling mint to create a hydrating, spa-like beverage that’s perfect for hot days, detox routines, or simply making hydration more enjoyable.
🔢 Servings & Timing
- Servings: 8 (1 cup each)
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Infusion Time: 1–12 hours (longer = stronger flavor)
- Total Time: 5 min prep + chilling
🧂 Ingredients
- 8 cups cold water (preferably filtered)
- ½ large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
- ½ large lemon, thinly sliced (remove seeds if possible)
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, loosely packed
👩🍳 Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Thinly slice the cucumber and lemon. Gently bruise the mint leaves (rub them between your fingers) to release their oils.
- Combine: Add all ingredients to a large pitcher or infuser bottle.
- Chill & Infuse: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 4–12 hours for stronger flavor.
- Serve: Pour over ice if desired. Garnish with fresh mint or a lemon wedge.
- Storage: Keep refrigerated. Best consumed within 2–3 days.
💡 Notes & Tips
- Cucumber: Peeling reduces bitterness. English cucumbers are ideal because they have fewer seeds.
- Lemon: Use organic to reduce pesticide exposure. Remove seeds to avoid bitterness.
- Mint: Gently bruise before adding to maximize flavor release.
- Infuser Bottles: Great for carrying on-the-go with less mess.
- Flavor Boosters: Add ginger slices, lime instead of lemon, or a few berries for variety.
🧮 Nutrition Info (Per 1-cup serving)
Since this is infused water, nutrient transfer is minimal but beneficial.
| Nutrient | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Calories | 0–2 kcal |
| Sugar | <1 g |
| Carbs | <1 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Vitamin C | Trace amounts (~5% DV) from lemon |
✅ Health Benefits
- 💧 Hydration: Encourages you to drink more water by adding flavor without sugar.
- 🍋 Digestive Support: Lemon stimulates digestive enzymes.
- 🥒 Anti-inflammatory: Cucumber contains antioxidants and silica, supporting healthy skin and joints.
- 🌿 Cooling & Refreshing: Mint soothes the stomach and provides a natural energy lift.
- 🚫 Zero Calories: A great alternative to sugary drinks or sodas.
❓ Q&A Section
Q: Can I reuse the ingredients for a second batch?
A: Yes—refill with water once or twice, but expect weaker flavor after the first infusion.
Q: Can I use sparkling water?
A: Absolutely! Sparkling water makes it feel more like a fancy mocktail.
Q: How long can I store this?
A: Up to 3 days in the fridge. Remove the lemon after 24 hours to avoid bitterness.
Q: Is this detox water?
A: “Detox” is a broad term, but this water supports hydration, digestion, and a healthy metabolism—so yes, in a natural sense.
Q: Can I blend it instead?
A: You can blend and strain it, but it will become more of a juice or smoothie base with pulp and higher nutrient content.
🧾 Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Servings | 8 cups |
| Calories | 0–2 kcal per serving |
| Prep Time | 5 min |
| Infuse Time | 1–12 hrs |
| Storage | Up to 3 days, refrigerated |
| Benefits | Hydration, digestion, skin health |
| Flavor Profile | Cool, citrusy, herbal |