The Easy Cutting Tip You Need To Infuse Cucumber Water In Record Time

It's almost embarrassing how easily a glass of water with fruit in it can make a monotonous moment feel bright, sparkly, and full of possibility. Taking the time to fasten a lemon wheel to the side of your glass, for instance, might send a signal to your brain that says you care about squeezing the most out of life. Doctored-up water certainly won't fix all of your problems, but it can at least make you feel extra refreshed and hydrated as you take in a haunting news cycle and wade through the stressors of daily life. 

Speaking of stress, have you ever been to a spa? If so, chances are you've been introduced to one of the most special waters of them all: cucumber water. Whether you choose the English or Persian variety, the crunchy, mild green fruit is the perfect companion to a jug of ice water, and it has several health benefits (more on those later). Making cucumber water at home might sound like a no-brainer process, but if you're after a big cucumber flavor in a short amount of time, there's a right way and a wrong way to slice those cukes.

The next time you're craving cucumber water but you're running low on time, don't reach for your knife. Instead, dig out your vegetable peeler. Wide strips (or ribbons) of cucumber will speed up the time it takes to infuse your water with that coveted vegetal cucumber flavor. Plus, the ribbons will look nice snaking through your pitcher like strands of seaweed. 

For even strips, start by cutting off the ends of your cucumber and slicing it into thirds lengthwise (or in half, if it's particularly thin). Drag your peeler along the flesh, remembering to glide away from your body to avoid cutting yourself. If all you have is a knife, keep the cucumber whole and, holding it upright, make thin slices in a downward motion. The slices don't have to be perfect, but they should have as much fleshy green surface area as possible. And if you have a lemon and some fresh mint lying around, you'd be remiss not to add them to the party. If you don't gulp it down immediately, store it in the fridge for a day or two. 

We would drink cucumber water even if didn't have outstanding health benefits. It tastes nice, it's easy to prepare, and it makes us feel like a human marble countertop if that makes any sense. But as it happens, cuke water is chock-full of vitamins and minerals that lend an added nutritional boost to the already-healthy act of staying hydrated. 

According to the Sarcoma Oncology Center, cucumber water is often given to patients recovering from chemotherapy. Cucumbers are rich in antioxidants (which can reduce and prevent cell damage) and contain essential vitamins like vitamin C, beta carotene, manganese, and molybdenum. Cucumbers have also been known to reduce blood pressure, thanks to their high potassium level. Finally, they contain Vitamin B5, which supports healthy skin, and Vitamin K, which is great for bone and tissue health. Perhaps most importantly, cucumber water is decidedly more interesting than plain water, which might encourage you to stay hydrated throughout the day.