Feeling overheated and a little run-down? Pour yourself some Cucumber Water and reinvigorate your senses.
It had been a while, a few years in fact, since we had traversed out of Los Angeles and made that beautiful and scenic drive through the desert into Palm Springs. Once a playground for Hollywood’s elite, Palm Springs boasts a bevy of fun hotels, restaurants and resorts. The Tonga Hut, one of my favorite Tiki bars in L.A., also has a location here, and it’s a great place to grab a cocktail or two when hiding from the heat. We usually go in the middle of the summer to beat the crowds, as the temperatures can get pretty high. One time we were there, it reached over 125 degrees… in the shade. Pretty toasty.
Today’s recipe is a booze-free one, and also a fantastic and healthy way to stay hydrated, especially if you’re in a hot spot like Palm Springs. We like to stay at Tiki Caliente when we visit, and their lobby usually has what we’ll be making today for their guests… cucumber water. Whenever we’d check in, I’d guzzle about four or five cups of the fresh-tasting drink within a matter of moments. I’d even pop in from time to time to grab a cup to go, especially if we were walking somewhere.
This is an easy, refreshing and thirst-quenching concoction, and one that I highly recommend you have on hand when the sun is beating down. Every summer, I visit my family on the East Coast, and whenever we go outside to hang by the pool, a pitcher of fresh cucumber water is always ready to pour, keeping all of us hydrated and safe from a dry and cracked throat.
Make some today, and have the best water you’ve ever tasted.
What Is The Best Alcohol To Use In Cucumber Water?
Here’s a mixture that is pretty pure, being comprised of filtered, fresh and cold water, infused with thinly sliced cucumbers. No alcohol, booze or spirits of any kind are, or should be, used. Make sure your fruit is fresh—yes, cucumber is a fruit—and your water is crisp and clean.
Ingredients
- 1 medium cucumber thinly sliced
- 8 cups cold water
- Lemon slices for serving, optional
Instructions
- Rinse one medium cucumber under cold water. Use a sharp knife or a mandoline to slice the cucumber thinly lengthwise.
- Place the cucumber ribbons in a large pitcher. Pour in 8 cups of cold water and stir gently to combine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
- When ready to serve, add ice to glasses and pour the infused water over. Garnish with lemon slices, if desired.
Nutrition
FAQs & Tips
WHAT GLASSWARE AND GARNISH ARE USED?
A pitcher and some tall or mid-sized glasses will do nicely when serving and enjoying your cucumber water. Fill the glasses with ice, pour in your water and garnish with a lemon wedge for some citrusy zing.
CAN YOU STORE CUCUMBER WATER?
After you’ve let the cucumber infuse with the water for up to an hour, serve and enjoy. Any left over can be refrigerated, but probably won’t taste so great the next day. This recipe is best when made fresh.
WHAT OTHER INGREDIENTS CAN BE USED IN THIS RECIPE?
My parents will use oranges, lemons, raspberries, blackberries and strawberries in their infused ice water mixtures. Feel free to experiment with yours and find what you like best.
Similar Drinks To The Cucumber Water
Cucumber water can refresh and recharge you. It’s also a very healthy choice when you’re thirsty. If tonight’s recipe has inspired you to take a break from boozy beverages, but you’re still in the mood for a cocktail-like experience, check out some of these spirit-free “mocktails” right here at Twist & Toast.
- Arnold Palmer – Iced tea and lemonade are all you need to make this golfing classic.
- Disneyland Mint Julep – Make a pitcher of this boozeless beverage for your next barbecue.
- Virgin Piña Colada – Try this mocktail version of the vacation favorite.
- Non-Alcoholic Espresso Martini – Here’s a take on the trendy drink that anyone can enjoy.
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