{Recipe Redux} Spa Water

The title of this month’s Recipe Redux challenge is: Beverages are hot!  We agree.  Mixologists have risen to the status of celebrity chefs, and the best restaurant drink menus include cocktails made with real, fresh ingredients (no fluorescent mixers!) and feature delicious, creative non-alcoholic cocktails for the patrons who don’t wish to imbibe.

When we host dinner parties, we always try to have a creative non-alcoholic option for guests—sometimes a fruit-infused herbal tea, an herb-scented sparkler or a riff on old-fashioned lemonade.  They are great for kids and adults alike.  There are lots of interesting recipes for both full-on cocktails and virgin versions on some of our favorite sites, including this one and this one.

But, when I started thinking about beverages, my mind kept getting stuck on something more simple:  water.  We’ve talked before about the importance of drinking water throughout the day here. 

But, sometimes plain water is sooooo booooorrrringggg.  And we don’t always have time to whip up a delicious concoction. 

The answer?  Spa water.

In my refrigerator, you’ll always find a picture of filtered water, spiked with the flavor of the week.  Sometimes it’s thinly sliced mandarin oranges, sometimes apples slices with a sprig of thyme.  In the summer, it might be cucumber and mint, or raspberries and basil.  Of course, lemon and lime often make an appearance, as an old standby.  You’re only limited by your imagination and the contents of your fruit and vegetables drawers.

Just fill your favorite pitcher with water and add whatever fruits, vegetables or herbs you think would taste good.  Leave the water to marinate for a few hours, and presto! Flavored water.    

Cheers!        

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