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!)
