Cucumber Water

This ultra refreshing Cucumber Water has just what you need to beat the summer heat! Serve up this easy infusion anytime you need a hydrating boost.

About this Cucumber Water recipe

The saying is “cool as a cucumber” — and for good reason. One bite of cucumber is crisp, refreshing and hydrating and I think you’ll find that a glass of Cucumber Water has the same effect.

Green and hardy, cucumbers are great on a veggie plate (don’t forget the whipped feta), on a sandwich, or even as an eye covering for a day at the spa. But when you put them in a drink, some people hesitate. 

This mellow vegetable doesn’t pack a punch like, say, a pickle martini. It’s subtle, making it mesh well with flavors like lime or botanicals, yet it’s able to stand on its own. This Cucumber Water makes that very clear, with a hint of mint that adds an extra cooling element.

Consider the summer heat beat with a glass in hand! It would be the perfect hydrating addition to cook outs, parties or a day by the water.

More infused water recipes: Strawberry Water • Berry Water • Winter Citrus Spa Water

What is infused water?

Infused water is plain water that’s been cold-steeped with fruit, fresh herbs, spices and vegetables. Although agua fresca translates to “fresh water” in Spanish, infused water is different than this tasty drink from Mexico that is usually blended with fruit, citrus, a sweetener and water. For this, you’ll want my recipe for cucumber agua fresca.

To make your own infused water, or spa water as it’s sometimes called, you simply place your desired ingredients into a pitcher of water for several hours. You’ll want to let it sit long enough for the water to absorb the flavors of the fruits, herbs or veggies so you’re left with a refreshing glass of water with just a hint of flavor.

Tools & glassware

For this simple sipper, your list of equipment is pretty simple too. A large measuring bowl or pitcher is the best choice for a big batch of infused water, but if you’re in a pinch, you can infuse straight in your drinking glass or in a jar! For a larger gathering, you could even use a drink dispenser ^* to allow guests to serve themselves.

You’ll also want to prepare your produce with a cutting board and sharp knife. Grab a muddler ^* from your bar tools to help release the flavors fully.

party essentials

drink dispenser

Buy Now →

punch bowl set

Buy Now →

round glass pitcher

Buy Now →

^*

Ingredients

Before you start, grab these ingredients for Cucumber Spa Water. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cucumber: As the star of the show, select your cucumber carefully! I love to find mine at the farmer’s market, but you could pick one up with your groceries or even grab one from your garden if they’re ripe.

Lime: You’ll want an actual lime — not lime juice— for this recipe. Store-bought lime juice is too tart and overpowering for a drink with cucumber!

Mint: If you have a cocktail herb garden like me, you won’t have to go far to get your mint! Otherwise pick some fresh mint up at the store.

Water: This one is up to you! Use whatever water you prefer to drink, whether that’s from the tap, filtered or something else.

Garnishes

For something so simple, I kept the garnishes simple too. I reserved some of my cucumber slices as a garnish, along with some mint leaves.

If you want to dress up your drink, dehydrated lime slices would be an impressive add. You could also place a ribbon of cucumber on a cocktail pick (it’s my favorite for cucumber cocktails like the Eastside) for added elegance.

Substitutions & variations

Try other flavors: Build on this recipe by adding slices of lemon, orange or grapefruit. You can also add watermelon, pineapple or berries.

Add more herbs: Throw in some fresh basil, cilantro, rosemary, sage or lavender for an earthy flavor and fragrant floral aroma as you sip.

Sweeten the deal: If you have a sweet tooth, stir in a little fruit juice, agave nectar ^*, honey or Splenda. When I’ve made infused water I find that the produce does plenty for my tastes, so you may not need anything additional.

Add bubbles: Use sparkling water or seltzer water for a bubbly twist that will have you feeling extra fancy.

Give it a boost: Infused water is a great way to mask any supplements you may like to add, such as mineral drops or electrolyte powder.

Instructions

It’s really so simple to create a delicious drink with plenty of benefits! Once you know how, you can keep your fridge stocked for an impromptu celebration or to enjoy anytime the mood strikes.

First, you’ll want to slice your cucumbers and limes. I shoot for uniform slices so that the finished product can be placed straight on the table if needed, but don’t overthink it.

Place all of the cucumber slices and half of the lime slices into your preferred container. Remove your mint leaves from the stem and add them to the container, then use a muddler ^*, spoon or fork to gently mash everything together.

Top your ingredients with water and chill for at least an hour (but you can leave it overnight). The longer you let everything sit, the more flavorful your water will be. Strain out the solids and transfer the liquid to a pitcher. Serve over ice in glasses with cucumber and lime slices and garnish with fresh mint.

Food pairings

With fresh, bright flavor this Cucumber Water pairs well with summer favorites.

For a larger gathering, consider shareable bites like tomato peach bruschetta or Tuscan white bean dip.

If you’re enjoying a glass at home, make a meal out of it with pesto chicken, watermelon blue cheese salad or pulled pork tacos.

Since you’ve stayed hydrated (and drank your vegetables), don’t skip dessert! Baked peaches, double chocolate chip cookies or a slice of dark chocolate chip banana bread would all be delicious.

FAQ

More refreshing recipes

• Citrus Ginger Beer Mocktail
• Blackberry Basil Mocktail
• Cranberry Lime Mocktail