Have you ever tried Orange Water? It may sound simple (because it is!), but adding sliced oranges and a hint of vanilla to a big pitcher of water makes staying hydrated even easier. It’s perfect for a summer party!
We have my sister-in-law to thank for this recipe, because she served this at my baby shower, and I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it.
It’s the perfect non-alcoholic drink for entertaining, with no added sugar. Everyone loves it!
Benefits of Oranges
Is orange water good for you? Here’s what you’ll love about adding oranges to your water.
- Even without the fiber, orange juice may help to lower blood pressure .
- Oranges are a source of citric acid, and as a result, orange juice may help to prevent the formation of kidney stones .
- Vitamin C and citric acid (both found in oranges) have been shown to improve iron absorption .
- Orange peel contains a compound called limonene, which may have a protective effect on the skin .
How to Make It
- Start with water. Add fresh filtered water to a pitcher that can hold 2 liters (or 8 cups).
- Slice the fruit. Slice the oranges into pieces that will fit into the mouth of your pitcher, about 1/4-inch thick, and then slice them in half to make them fit in my serving pitcher. You can slice them even smaller, into quarters, if your pitcher has a more narrow spout. You don’t want to make it difficult on yourself to remove the orange slices later, and I like it when a few slices pour into the glass!
- Let it rest. Once you’ve added the orange slices and vanilla to the water, let it sit for 2 to 4 hours in the fridge.
- Enjoy! Serve it over ice and with extra orange slices, if you want it to look extra-pretty. I sometimes like to add a fresh basil leaf, too.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
You can make orange-infused water up to 2 days in advance, and store in an airtight container in the fridge. I don’t recommend storing it for more than 36 hours, as the water may become too bitter from the orange peels.
More Healthy Drinks to Try
- Fresh Basil Lemonade
- Watermelon Juice
- Cinnamon Tea
- Ginger Tea
- Beet Juice
- Elderberry Tea
- Rosemary Tea (try it iced!)
IngredientsUS CustomaryMetric1x2x3x
- 8 cups filtered water (2 liters)
- 1 orange , sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Fill a pitcher with 8 cups of water and slice the orange into pieces roughly a 1/4-inch thick. Cut them in half, or in quarters, depending on how large the mouth of your pitcher is. (You want them to be easily removed later for cleaning!)
- Add the vanilla and orange slices to the water, stir well, and let the flavors meld together for 2 to 4 hours in the fridge before serving. Serve chilled, and store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Notes
Nutrition
Orange Infused Water
Ingredients
- 8 cups filtered water (2 liters)
- 1 orange , sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Fill a pitcher with 8 cups of water and slice the orange into pieces roughly a 1/4-inch thick. Cut them in half, or in quarters, depending on how large the mouth of your pitcher is. (You want them to be easily removed later for cleaning!)
- Add the vanilla and orange slices to the water, stir well, and let the flavors meld together for 2 to 4 hours in the fridge before serving. Serve chilled, and store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
