Strawberry-Lavender Infused Water
Refreshing drinks are a must during warm weather, and infused water has become popular for good reasons. Infused water is not only tasty but also healthy. One excellent option is Strawberry-Lavender Infused Water. This delightful drink combines the natural sweetness of strawberries with the calming flavor of lavender. You can enjoy this as a lighter option to sugary beverages, and it’s perfect for meal prep!
It’s an excellent choice for weight loss as it’s low in calories, high in hydration, and offers a refreshing taste experience. Plus, it’s gluten-free and diabetic-friendly, making it suitable for various diets.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love preparing and sipping on Strawberry-Lavender Infused Water for multiple reasons. First, it’s super easy to make, making it perfect for meal prep. You can infuse a big pitcher at the beginning of the week to stay hydrated and enjoy a healthy drink ready at your fingertips. Also, it is a lower-calorie alternative to sodas and sugary drinks while offering a unique and refreshing flavor. Lastly, this drink is great for weight loss since it provides a sense of fullness without adding extra calories.
HOW TO MAKE Strawberry-Lavender Infused Water
Making Strawberry-Lavender Infused Water is incredibly simple! With just a few ingredients, you can create a deliciously refreshing drink that provides various health benefits.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
To get started, you’ll need:
- A pitcher for mixing
- A cutting board
- A knife for slicing strawberries
- A spoon for stirring
- A strainer (optional)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 strawberries (sliced)
- 1 tsp dried lavender buds
- 1 liter cold water
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices (optional)
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
- Start by washing the strawberries thoroughly.
- Slice the strawberries into thin pieces and place them in a pitcher.
- Add 1 teaspoon of dried lavender buds to the pitcher with the strawberries.
- Fill the pitcher with 1 liter of cold water.
- Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- After infusing, serve the water over ice and garnish with lemon slices for an extra zing.
HOW TO SERVE Strawberry-Lavender Infused Water
Strawberry-Lavender Infused Water is best served chilled. Pour it into a glass filled with ice cubes, and feel free to add a couple of lemon slices for added flavor. This drink is not only refreshing but can also be enjoyed at any time of the day. Aim for a serving size of about 250 ml for hydration without overdoing it, making it a great option for portion control!
STORAGE & FREEZING: Strawberry-Lavender Infused Water
This infused water is ideal for quick storage. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to infuse, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Do not freeze the infused water, as freezing can compromise the taste and texture of the ingredients.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
To pair with your Strawberry-Lavender Infused Water, consider enjoying a fresh fruit salad or a handful of mixed nuts. These options are health-conscious and provide a balanced accompaniment to your refreshing drink. Including proteins or fiber-rich foods as sides can further enhance your overall meal quality.
VARIATIONS
Healthier Version:
For a more nutrient-packed version, substitute the strawberries with mixed berries, like blueberries and raspberries. Both are low in calories and rich in antioxidants, making this infused water even healthier.
High-Protein or Low-Carb Version:
Although infused waters typically focus on refreshing flavors without added proteins or carbs, you could pair the infused water with a high-protein snack like Greek yogurt or low-carb protein bars to create a balanced meal. This will help you stay fuller for longer while enjoying the refreshing drink.
Air Fryer or Oven-Baked Version:
While Strawberry-Lavender Infused Water is meant to be enjoyed cold, you can create a lovely dessert to accompany the drink by air-frying sliced strawberries mixed with a touch of honey. Bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they are caramelized. This warm treat can be a great addition alongside your refreshing drink!
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh lavender! Just use about 2 teaspoons of fresh lavender buds instead of dried ones for the same flavor profile.
2. How long does Strawberry-Lavender Infused Water last in the fridge?
It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The taste tends to improve as the ingredients meld, but it’s best when consumed fresh.
3. Is this drink suitable for diabetics?
Yes, Strawberry-Lavender Infused Water is a great option for diabetics since it is low in calories and contains no added sugars, making it a refreshing and safe choice.
4. Can I make this infused water a day in advance?
Absolutely! Making it a day before you plan to enjoy it is a great way to ensure the flavors develop fully. Just remember to store it in the fridge.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Strawberry-Lavender Infused Water
Preparing Strawberry-Lavender Infused Water ahead of time is simple and efficient! You can mix it on a Sunday and store it in the refrigerator for the entire week. This will help you stay hydrated and have a healthy beverage ready to grab whenever you need. This not only saves time but also encourages you to pick a lighter option over sugary drinks, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
Use a large pitcher to ensure you’ve got enough servings for the days to come. By making this drink in advance, you set yourself up for success in maintaining hydration while enjoying a delightful, tasty, and refreshing drink.
With its health benefits and sweet flavor, Strawberry-Lavender Infused Water is a drink you won’t want to miss. Enjoy refreshing yourself with this delightful blend!