I love water. Really—I do. Following an intermittent fasting regimen where I only eat one to two large meals a day, it’s my constant companion for hunger management. But even though I enjoy it, I still like to switch things up. That’s where infused water blends come in.
I like to call them salad in a glass—because that’s exactly what they are: fresh, functional and full of real, whole foods that love your body back. No added sugar, no weird powders, just ingredients you can actually recognize, doing your body good.
I’ve tested countless infused water blends over the years. Here, I’m highlighting seven that I always come back to. They’re simple, satisfying and made with ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Whether you’re working toward drinking more water, want something refreshing between meals or just need a little flavor to keep things interesting, these infused water recipes deliver.
The Infused Water Blends
Each recipe is written for two 32-ounce mason jars—perfect for prepping ahead or sharing. If you don’t have jars yet, these are my go-to. They’re durable, easy to clean, and just the right size. I also use these twist-off lids to make prepping and storing even easier. If you only need one jar, just cut the ingredients in half.
Simply toss everything into your jars, fill with filtered water and let them chill in the fridge for at least 2-4 hours (or overnight for the best flavor).
1. Cucumber Lime Mint
This infused water recipe is clean, crisp and super refreshing. Cucumber keeps it smooth and hydrating, thanks to its high water content and natural electrolytes. Lime adds a bright, citrusy lift and a boost of vitamin C, while mint brings a fresh finish and supports digestion. I reach for this one after workouts or anytime I want something light and cooling.
What you’ll need:
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 lime, thinly sliced
- 8-10 fresh mint leaves
Make It Even Better:
- Lightly crush the mint leaves to release more flavor.
- Try freezing mint leaves in ice cubes to make it even more refreshing.
- Best enjoyed within 24 hours for peak freshness.
2. Strawberry Basil Lemon
This is one of the most requested infused water blends in my home—and for good reason. It’s bright, herby and just sweet enough. Strawberries bring natural sweetness and vitamin C, lemon adds a clean citrus edge and supports digestion, and basil rounds it out with a slightly peppery, refreshing twist. It looks beautiful in the jar and tastes even better.
What you’ll need:
- 6-8 strawberries, sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 6-8 fresh basil leaves
Make It Even Better:
- Gently tear or bruise the basil leaves to bring out their flavor.
- Try a splash of pure maple syrup, raw honey or monk fruit to enhance the berries—especially if they’re a little tart.
- Let it steep overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Grape Orange Ginger Thyme
Smooth, slightly sweet and citrusy with a subtle herbal twist, this blend might surprise you—in the best way. Grapes bring natural sweetness and a pop of antioxidants, orange adds a bright citrus lift and immune support, and ginger delivers warmth and digestive benefits. Thyme rounds it out with a gentle earthiness, especially when using lemon thyme. It’s fresh, vibrant and the kind of blend that feels both grounded and energizing.
What you’ll need:
- 1 cup red or black grapes, halved
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 6-8 thin slices fresh ginger
- 2 small sprigs lemon thyme (or common thyme)
Make It Even Better:
- Lightly muddle the grapes to release their juices and boost flavor.
- If using common thyme instead of lemon thyme, add a slice or two of lemon to brighten the flavor and balance the herbs.
- Let it steep 4-6 hours to allow the citrus and thyme to fully infuse.
4. Strawberry Mint Ginger
Sweet, cool and a little spicy, this infused water recipe brings some serious flavor. Strawberries add natural sweetness and a boost of vitamin C, while ginger delivers warmth and supports digestion. Mint keeps it crisp and refreshing, with antioxidants that help fight inflammation. It’s perfect when you want something a little more vibrant but still easy to sip all day.
What you’ll need:
- 6-8 strawberries, sliced
- 6-8 thin slices fresh ginger
- 8-10 fresh mint leaves
Make It Even Better:
- Lightly muddle the strawberries for a stronger infusion.
- No need to peel the ginger—just rinse and slice thin.
- Let it steep at least 4 hours for full flavor.
5. Cucumber Lemon Blueberry
If you’re craving something light with a little zip, this blend hits all the right notes. Lemon brings a bright citrus punch and digestive support, blueberries add natural sweetness and a boost of antioxidants, and cucumber pulls it all together with a cool, hydrating finish. It’s clean, crisp and perfectly balanced—one of my go-tos for an afternoon pick-me-up.
What you’ll need:
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
Make It Even Better:
- Lightly press the blueberries with the back of a spoon to release more flavor.
- For a stronger citrus kick, add a few strips of lemon peel.
- Steep for at least 2-4 hours and enjoy within 48 hours for the best taste.
6. Cranberry Grapefruit Rosemary
Tart, citrusy and a little earthy, this blend feels bold and refreshing with every sip. Grapefruit brings a bright, tangy punch and a solid dose of vitamin C, cranberries add antioxidants and support urinary health, and rosemary layers in a savory, aromatic note that makes it feel a little extra. It’s especially great around the holidays—festive, functional and just as pretty as it is flavorful.
What you’ll need:
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (crushed slightly)
- 1 grapefruit, sliced with peel
- 2-4 small sprigs fresh rosemary
Make It Even Better:
- Use a muddler or spoon to gently crush the cranberries and unlock more flavor.
- Choose ruby red grapefruit for a slightly sweeter, less bitter infusion.
- Let it steep at least 4-6 hours for the rosemary to fully come through.
7. Apple Orange Cinnamon
Cozy, subtly sweet and gently spiced, this infused water recipe feels like a warm hug—even when it’s served cold. Apples and oranges bring natural sweetness and vitamin C, while cinnamon supports blood sugar balance and adds a familiar, comforting flavor. It’s a great one to keep in rotation when the weather cools down, or anytime you want something that feels a little grounding.
What you’ll need:
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 2-4 cinnamon sticks
Make It Even Better:
- Use crisp apples like Fuji, Honeycrisp or Pink Lady for the best flavor and texture.
- Add a few cloves or a slice of fresh ginger for extra warmth.
- For a stronger cinnamon flavor, boil the sticks in water for 5-10 minutes first, then let it cool before adding to your jar. You can also let the blend steep overnight to naturally bring out more of the cinnamon’s sweetness.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
Infused water is best enjoyed fresh, but it can easily fit into your routine with a little prep.
- Shelf life: Keep blends refrigerated and enjoy within 48 hours for the best flavor. If it smells off or looks cloudy, it’s time to toss it.
- Refills: You can top off your jar once or twice with fresh water but expect a lighter flavor each time.
- Fruit and herbs: Use them up in smoothies or snacks, or compost them if they’re past their prime. Leftover herbs? Freeze them in ice cube trays with water for your next batch.
- Storage: Glass jars or pitchers hold flavor best. Keep your blends covered and chilled. On the go? Use an insulated bottle to keep it fresh and cool.
Make It Your Own
These infused water blends aren’t just recipes—they’re a simple, intentional way to take better care of your body without overthinking it. Whether you’re managing hunger, staying energized between meals or just looking for a flavorful break from plain water, there’s something here for every taste and every season.
Start with one or two blends you’re drawn to, then make them your own. Use what you have, adjust the flavors to fit your mood and don’t be afraid to get creative. You can prep ahead, swap ingredients or refill throughout the day—whatever works for your flow.
If you’re ready to build on this habit, my Build Your Bowl Guides offer even more simple, customizable ways to fuel your day. Pair them with these infused water blends, and you’ll see just how easy it is to stay hydrated, nourished and feeling your best.
Let me know which one you try first! Share your pics on Instagram (@that.salad.lady) and TikTok (@thatsaladlady). Don’t forget to add the hashtags #thatsaladlady and #buildyourbowl. You can also pin your favorites on Pinterest and share them on Facebook using #thatsaladlady. I can’t wait to see your creations!
