With it being the start of summer nearly, you may be getting sick of the old stand-by of water. Flavored waters are a waste of money, but you want something that hydrates and tastes good. Did you know you can make your own flavored waters for very cheap and take advantage of the awesome sales at farmer’s markets this month on fresh fruits and veggies?

Flavored water is a great way to get yourself and your kids off sugary sodas as well.  While it won’t be a burst of flavor or sweetness, it will certinally taste a lot better than just plain tap water.

How do you flavor water? It’s really as simple as this:

First decide on a flavor you want. You can use fruits, even veggies like cucumbers and if you are feeling extra adventurous, try some fresh herbs.

When you have your flavor picked, put a small amount in the bottom of a mason jar. Take a spoon and mash the fruits together. Don’t pulverize them, just enough to release the flavor of the fruit.

Fill the glass with ice and pour in the water. Place it in the fridge to chill. You can add a little bit of whole pieces of fruit to the mixture as well for an extra treat.

If you find that you need a little bit of sweetener, try adding some agave syrup or honey.

Here are some good ideas for flavor combinations:

• All citrus: lemon, lime and orange

• Watermelon

• Any berry-raspberry, strawberry, blueberry

• Lemon and blueberry

• Blackberry and lime

• Basil and Watermelon

• Cucumber

These should keep for 2-3 days in the fridge. You can even make them in larger batches in a large glass carafe with a spout similar to what many people use for making sun tea.

Speaking of  tea, this same method works for making flavored iced teas. Just replace the water with brewed, chilled tea. No need to buy pre-made flavored tea anymore!

Tip: If you don’t like the seeds or pulp from the fruits you are using, pour the drink through a strainer before adding to a glass. Also, if you miss the fizz of pop, try using a Sodasteam to make fizzy water. (Sodastreams start at $79.00 at Walmart)

Depending on the flavor you choose, each serving can be as low as 15 cents or $1.00 per pitcher! Save even more by using fruits that are in season or on discount.

Have you ever made flavor infused water? What is your favorite flavor combination?