Cucumber Water

Since middle school I have been a total diet coke addict.  There were times in my life that I would drink at least 2 liters of the stuff everyday, including having a caffeine full glass right before bed.  In fact, here is a picture from behind my computer just 6 months ago:



I figured that it was good for me because it was calorie free. Totally wrong. 

Now I drink mostly water or espresso, maybe an iced coffee, and I try not to drink caffeine after 12 pm. But I get bored with water and coffee. Sometimes I want to drink something with a little flavor. In comes flavored water - not this crap.  Flavored water I make myself.  And its easy. I just place whatever flavorings I want to use in the bottom of my Brita filter, add water, and enjoy a few hours later.

My favorite is really simple - plain cucumber - but really there are endless options.  I've done strawberries and basil, honeydew melon and mint, orange and lavender, lemongrass and basil.



Ingredients
2 liters of water
1 medium cumber, sliced (whatever fruit or veg you are using you want about a cup of slices)
4 -5 sprigs of thyme(optional) (for fresh herbs use 1/3 of a cup, if you are using a dried herd, like lavender, use 1-2 tablespoons)

1) Place cucumber (and thyme if using) in the bottom of your brita filter or pitcher.  Pour water in.  Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, 24 is better. Strain. Serve over ice. Enjoy. Be refreshed!

For my grow up readers - this is super tasty mixed with gin or rum and a splash of seltzer!