Homemade Nectarine Infused Water

If you ask me, infused water is one of the simplest ways to jazz up your daily hydration.

This nectarine-infused water makes a refreshing drink that’s bursting with natural sweetness and subtle fruit flavor. Fresh nectarine slices slowly release their juices into cool water, creating something that tastes way fancier than it actually is.

All you need is ripe nectarines, water, and a little patience while the flavors meld together. A few ice cubes and maybe a sprig of mint take it to the next level.

It’s a healthy alternative to sugary drinks that feels special enough for guests but easy enough for everyday sipping.

What Kind of Nectarines Should I Use?

For infused water, you’ll want to use ripe nectarines that give slightly when you press them gently – they’ll release more flavor into the water than firm, underripe ones. Both yellow and white nectarines work great, though white nectarines tend to be a bit sweeter if that’s your preference. Don’t worry if your nectarines are super soft or even a little overripe, as they’re actually perfect for infusing since they’ll break down more easily and give you maximum flavor. Just make sure to wash them well and remove any bruised spots before dicing them up for your water.

Options for Substitutions

This refreshing infused water is super easy to customize based on what you have on hand:

• Nectarines: If nectarines aren’t in season, peaches work perfectly as they’re basically the same fruit. You could also try plums or apricots for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Watermelon: Cantaloupe or honeydew melon make great substitutes and will give you that same sweet, refreshing taste. Just make sure to remove any seeds before adding to your water.
• Basil: Fresh mint is probably the most popular swap here and gives a classic spa water vibe. You could also try thyme for something more subtle, or even a few cucumber slices if you don’t have any herbs.
• Cold water: Stick with regular water for this one – it’s really the star that lets all those fresh fruit and herb flavors shine through. Sparkling water works too if you want some fizz.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Making

The biggest mistake when making infused water is using overripe or mushy fruit, which can make your water cloudy and unappetizing – choose firm nectarines and crisp watermelon for the clearest, most refreshing result.

Another common error is not washing your fruit thoroughly before adding it to the water, especially since you’re using the skin, so give everything a good rinse even if it looks clean.

Don’t muddle or mash the basil leaves too aggressively, as this releases bitter compounds – instead, gently bruise them with your fingers or give them a light clap between your palms to release the oils.

For the best flavor, let your infused water sit in the fridge for at least 2-4 hours before drinking, and remember to strain out the fruit and herbs after 24 hours to prevent the water from becoming bitter or overly strong.

What to Serve With Nectarine Infused Water?

This refreshing fruit water is perfect alongside light summer meals like grilled chicken salads, fish tacos, or a fresh caprese sandwich. I love sipping it during outdoor barbecues since it pairs so well with grilled vegetables and doesn’t compete with smoky flavors. It’s also great to serve at brunch with pastries, fruit salads, or egg dishes since the fruity sweetness complements both sweet and savory breakfast foods. For hot summer days, try it with cold gazpacho or a Mediterranean mezze platter with hummus and pita chips.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate: Your nectarine infused water tastes best when kept cold in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to 2-3 days in a covered pitcher or jar. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will develop, so don’t be surprised if it tastes even better the next day!

Make Ahead: This is perfect for prepping ahead of time for parties or hot summer days. Just combine all the fruit and basil in your pitcher the night before, add the water, and let it chill overnight. The flavors will have plenty of time to meld together beautifully.

Refresh: After a day or two, you can strain out the fruit and herbs, then add fresh ones if you want to keep the infusion going. The fruit will start to get a bit mushy after a few days, but the water will still taste great. Just top off with more cold water as needed.

Preparation Time	10-15 minutes
Cooking Time	0-0 minutes
Total Time	70-75 minutes
Level of Difficulty	Easy

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):

• Calories: 60-80
• Protein: 1-2 g
• Fat: 0-1 g
• Carbohydrates: 15-20 g

Ingredients

• 2 pieces seedless watermelon, cubed
• 2 ripe nectarines, chopped
• 1 small handful fresh basil leaves
• Cold water, enough to fill pitcher

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

• 2 pieces seedless watermelon, cubed
• 2 ripe nectarines, chopped

Cut the seedless watermelon into cubes and chop the nectarines into bite-sized pieces.

These will be the main flavor base for your infused water.

Step 2: Assemble the Infusion

• cubed seedless watermelon from Step 1
• chopped nectarines from Step 1
• 1 small handful fresh basil leaves

Place the cubed watermelon, chopped nectarines, and the fresh basil leaves into a pitcher.

This combination creates a vibrant blend of flavors and aromas.

I like to tear the basil leaves slightly to release their oils for even more fragrance.

Step 3: Add Water and Chill

• cold water, enough to fill pitcher

Pour cold water into the pitcher, filling it up and ensuring all the ingredients are submerged.

Stir the mixture gently to combine the flavors, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the fruit and basil to infuse the water.

Step 4: Serve the Infused Water

Once chilled, serve your watermelon-nectarine infused water cold, pouring it over ice if desired.

Enjoy this refreshing and flavorful summer drink!