I’ll Drink to That

Getting a manicure or pedicure can be hard work. After a long hour spent in your chair (or before they get to it), how do you replenish their spirits? What you give them to drink inevitably leaves its mark on the planet, so some salons and spas are choosing wisely.

The first thing to go for these spas: paper and plastic cups. Glassware and ceramic replace the wasteful one-use cups at places like Eden Organix Spa and Acqua Beauty Bar.

And in these cups, the spas rarely serve plain water. A favorite for many is cucumber water. Here are a few homemade “gourmet” water recipes to spice up the drinks at your place:

Cucumber Water

Slice a cucumber (may be peeled if you choose), and put in a pitcher of water and ice. Chill overnight and serve the next day.

Lemon Mint Cucumber Water (courtesy of A Veggie Venture)

Slice a quarter of a cucumber and a lemon, and place in a pitcher with a few sprigs of mint. Fill with water (about two quarts). Flavor will “deepen” over time.

Mexican Strawberry Water (courtesy of Olivia at All Recipes)

In a medium bowl, mix together four cups of sliced strawberries, one cup sugar, and one cup water. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator for four hours. Pour the mixture into a blender, blending on high until smooth. Pour the mixture through a wire mesh strainer over a large mixing bowl; discard the pulp and seeds. Add seven more cups of cold water to the pureed strawberries and mix well. Chill for several hours.