A Refreshing Summer Drink

I've just returned from two weeks out West and a visit to Grasslands National Park in lovely Saskatchewan.  The best thing about the trip?  The huge expanse of blue sky on the prairies.  Summer is wrapped up in that sky, and the clear sun and puffy white clouds completed the picture.

Now that I'm back, the garden is overflowing and I'm excited about picking salads from the garden and dining al fresco under my converted drive-shed.  Hot summer nights dining outside call for something refreshing.  We should all drink more water, especially in hot weather, but if you're like me, you may find plain water harsh and a little hard to get down. 

I first enjoyed cucumber water while having my nails done at Holt Renfrew.  Those were in the days when I actually had nails, and had them done on a semi-regular basis.  I may live simpler now, but I always remembered the subtle flavour a slice of cucumber gave to that ice cold water. I keep empty French lemonade bottles in my fridge filled with cold water at all times, then just empty them into a pitcher.  Add thinly sliced cucumber and serve.

A pitcher of clear water on your table is simple and beautiful, and cucumber is only one way to add a little flavour to summer water.  Try a handful of mint or lemon balm, some slices of grapefruit, a sprig of cilantro, or a combination of any of these.  Serve ice water in a beautiful, yet inexpensive, thin-rimmed French glass, like the ones shown here.  

It's a simple pleasure that you may find becomes a regular part of your summer table.