Simple Summer Sipping - Cucumber Lemon Water

One of my favorite (non-alcoholic) summer drinks is also one of the easiest to make. I first encountered cucumber water at my friend Abby's bridal shower. We were at TSalon in New York, and this was one of the non-tea options available. I was blown away by the subtle yet sweet flavor imparted by the cucumber.

At T Salon, this is made with cucumbers alone, but last year, at the opening of the Janice Bluestein Longone Culinary Archive in Ann Arbor, I was served a version that had the added tang of lemon. Ahhhh... the drink had reached perfection.

Cucumber Lemon Water

1/2 cucumber, peeled and sliced
1/4 lemon, sliced
filtered water

Place the cucumber and lemon in a large pitcher (I use a Rubbermaid Storage Pitcher when not entertaining). Fill with water. Let sit for an hour or two and serve over ice. I usually refill the container two to three times before discarding the cucumber and lemon. They might not stand as many refills if you don't drink this as quickly as I do (but you probably will).

Note: This is incredibly kid friendly, due to the sweetness of the cucumber. Yet, it is also incredibly healthy. Dylan declared it the most delicious drink EVER.