Why You’ll Love Basil Water Recipe
This recipe turns plain water into a delightful beverage you’ll actually want to drink. With aromatic basil leaves and the option of combining fruit, it’s a healthy alternative to sugary drinks. It’s incredibly easy, versatile, and visually appealing — perfect for hot days, gatherings, or simply elevating your daily hydration.
Plus, basil adds subtle herby complexity that complements fruit flavors and gives your water a fresh twist.
It’s also a great way to use up leftover basil or a bounty from a garden or windowsill.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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fresh basil leaves (loosely packed, torn)
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fruit of choice (lightly smash half to release more flavor — optional)
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filtered water
Directions
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Rinse and pat dry the basil leaves; tear or lightly crush them to help release their flavor.
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Prepare a large pitcher or jar and fill with cold, filtered water.
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Add the torn basil leaves (and fruit if using) into the water, ensuring they’re submerged.
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Place the container in the refrigerator and let it infuse for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight for a stronger flavor.
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After the infusion time, serve chilled or over ice. If you added fruit, remove the fruit after about 24 hours, since most of the flavour will have dissipated.
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Optionally, you can use sparkling water instead of still water for some fizz.
Servings and timing
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Prep time: ~5 minutes
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Infusion time: ~2 hours (or up to overnight)
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Total time: ~2 hours 5 minutes
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Servings: ~4 pitcher‑servings
Variations
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Choose different fruit pairings: watermelon, orange, lime, raspberries, strawberries, cucumber + lime + blackberries.
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Use sparkling or carbonated water for a fizzy version.
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Adjust amount of basil for a lighter or stronger herbal note.
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Make basil‑fruit ice cubes: add small pieces of fruit and basil into ice‑cube tray, cover with water and freeze; then add to water for visual interest and gradual infusion.
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Mix more than one fruit in the same pitcher for layered flavour (e.g., cucumber + blackberries + basil).
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Use different basil types (sweet basil, Thai basil) depending on what you have or prefer.
Storage/Reheating
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Store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 24 hours for best flavour. After that the flavour of the fruit (if included) diminishes.
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There’s no reheating involved — this is a cold beverage. If flavour fades, you may refresh by adding new basil leaves or fresh fruit and letting it infuse again.
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For longer storage without fruit, you can leave the basil in water a bit longer, but taste will gradually weaken.
FAQs
What kind of basil should I use?
You can use sweet basil, Thai basil or other fresh basil varieties. Choose vibrant, healthy leaves without browning or wilting.
Can I skip the fruit and just use basil?
Yes — basil alone in water creates a subtle herbal flavour and works well if you prefer something minimalist or don’t have fruit on hand.
How long should I let the water infuse?
At least 2 hours in the refrigerator is recommended for a good flavour. Overnight will give a stronger infusion. Avoid much longer than 24 hours with fruit, as flavour and freshness decline.
Can I use tap water?
You can, but filtered or high‑quality cold water will give a cleaner taste. The quality of water affects how the flavours come through.
Is this drink healthy?
Yes — it is essentially water infused with basil (and optionally fruit), offering hydration and mild flavour without added sugars or sweeteners.
Can I make this ahead for a party?
Absolutely — make a large pitcher with your basil and fruit early, chill it in the fridge, and serve throughout the event for an elegant non‑alcoholic option.
Can I use frozen fruit?
Yes — frozen fruit works in a pinch, though fresh fruit will impart more flavour and better texture in the water.
How strong is the basil flavour?
It depends on the amount of basil, how much the leaves were torn/crushed, and how long you infuse. You can adjust to make it subtle or bold.
Does it matter if I remove the basil leaves after infusion?
It’s optional — the flavour will continue to infuse slowly if left, but if you prefer a milder taste or cleaner look, you can remove the leaves after your desired infusion time.
Can I reuse the basil/leaves for another batch?
You could try, but the flavour intensity will be much weaker on a second use. It’s best to use fresh basil leaves for best results.
Conclusion
This basil‑infused water offers a beautiful way to stay hydrated while enjoying flavour, aroma and visual appeal. With minimal ingredients, flexible fruit combinations, and an easy method, it’s an ideal drink for any time you’d like something beyond plain water. Give it a try, experiment with your favourite fruits and basil varieties, and enjoy a refreshing twist on hydration.
Basil Water
- Total Time: 5 minutes (plus infusion time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Basil water is a refreshing, flavorful infused drink made by steeping fresh basil leaves in water. It’s a healthy alternative to sugary beverages, offering a subtle herbal taste and potential health benefits.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch fresh basil (about 1 cup packed leaves)
- 4 cups cold water
- Ice cubes (optional)
- Lemon or lime slices (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions
- Rinse the fresh basil leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Gently crush the basil leaves with your hands to help release their natural oils.
- Place the basil leaves into a large pitcher or container.
- Pour in 4 cups of cold water over the basil leaves.
- Let the mixture infuse in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours, or overnight for a stronger flavor.
- Strain the basil leaves from the water if desired, or leave them in for presentation.
- Serve chilled over ice, optionally garnished with lemon or lime slices.
Notes
- Use organic basil for the cleanest taste and fewer chemicals.
- For a stronger flavor, muddle the basil leaves before infusing.
- Store in the fridge and consume within 2-3 days for best flavor.
- Try adding other herbs like mint or fruits like cucumber for variety.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Infused
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 0
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
