Description
A refreshing, zero-sugar summer hydration drink made with fresh cucumbers, lemons, and mint. This simple infused water helps flush out excess sodium and keeps you cool without any added calories.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium cucumbers (about 1 pound / 450g), sliced thin
- 1 large bunch fresh mint (about 1 cup, loosely packed)
- 2 medium lemons (about 2/3 cup juice / 160ml), sliced thin
- 1 gallon (3.8 liters) cold sparkling or still water
- Ice cubes (as needed for serving)
Instructions
- Wash cucumbers, lemons, and mint thoroughly under cold water and pat dry.
- Trim the ends off the cucumbers and slice them into thin rounds or half-moons. Peel if using standard cucumbers with thick skin.
- Cut off the ends of the lemons and slice them into thin rounds. Remove any seeds to prevent bitterness.
- Separate mint leaves from stems. Clap the leaves between your palms to bruise them slightly and release oils; do not chop.
- Place cucumber slices, lemon slices, and mint leaves into a large 1-gallon pitcher.
- Gently press down on the ingredients with a spoon to help release juices.
- Pour cold water over the ingredients. If using sparkling water, pour slowly down the side to preserve fizz.
- Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow flavors to infuse.
- Serve over fresh ice cubes. Garnish with mint or lemon if desired.
- Discard fruit after 24 hours and make a fresh batch.
Notes
Do not over-steep; lemon peels and cucumber skins can become bitter if left in water for more than 24 hours. Always remove lemon seeds. Clap mint leaves instead of chopping to keep them green and fresh. Use cold filtered water for best taste. This recipe is naturally low-calorie and sugar-free.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16 oz (approx. half
- Calories: 5
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 5
- Carbohydrates: 1
Keywords: detox water, infused water, summer drink, cucumber mint lemon, hydration, zero sugar, healthy drinks, low calorie