Serving Water in Style

Summer, as wonderful as it is, is filled with temptations.  Between cook-outs, weddings, company picnics, and a million other events, we all face constant incentives to munch.    When I host a summer event, I have an easy secret weapon that prevents me from overloading my guests with sugar and calories.  And amazingly, it comes right out of the tap in my kitchen.  

With a couple of tricks, water can feel (almost) as special as the lemonade, mojitos, and margaritas we associate with sunny, summer social gatherings.  

Try spicing it up with tasty add-ins.  There are many refreshing combinations (lime/ mint and cherry/ orange come to mind…), but my personal favorite is below: 

L.A. Classic H2O*

½ large cucumber, sliced in rounds

¼ large lemon, sliced in rounds

6 cups filtered water

Fill a pitcher with all ingredients.  Cover and let sit in the fridge for 30 minutes. 

*Best when served chilled—even for those who don’t like ice. 

Of course, if you present water in a well-worn pitcher, your guests are likely to go looking for the beer. Luckily, Crate & Barrel is currently offering the hand-blown Ginny pitcher for $16.95.  That’s 1/8 of the price of a certain high-end look-alike that I have literally fantasized about.  

If you happen to be in the market for a more luxurious item, you can still find a bargain.  Replacements of Greensboro, North Carolina, sells overstock and gently used tabletop wares– including tea party favorites like Waterford and William Yeoward crystal.  On a good day, you can find an heirloom-quality pitcher up to and over 50% off the retail price.         

For a modern sensibility, act fast to get Orrefors carafes and stemware on sale at Rue-La-La.  The boutique is open until 7.01.09 11AM EDT, but considering the huge following Orrefors enjoys, items are likely to go fast.  

And as a kitschy touch for your 4th festivities, check out Retro Planet’s dineresque Red Pitcher, an easy treat at $13.99.  It’s very Route 66, and just the right touch of whimsy for a casual patio get-together. 

Happy Serving! 

Lucie is the Director of www.ZinaBeverlyHills.com. 

Photo courtesy of CountryLiving.com.