Staying hydrated in our summer heat is a must. Drinking soft drinks, sweet tea or lemonade quench thirst for a moment and taste great, too, but water is the best way to hydrate.

Our bodies need a lot of it to function, and we hear, “Drink more water” incessantly, especially in the hot summer months.

But let's face it — water is boring. There's no sugar. No fizz. No excitement.

However, drinking water doesn't have to be dull. Adding fruit and fresh herbs to water is a natural, healthy alternative to both plain water and sugar-laden drinks. Try these fruit-infused water recipes (or create your own) for a hint of flavor while you hydrate.

Cucumber and Lemon

• 6 cups chilled water
• 12 slices of cucumber (sliced lengthwise)
• 4 slices lemon
• Combine all ingredients in a 2-quart pitcher. Serve immediately over ice or store in refrigerator.

Vanilla and Peach

• 2 quarts of water
• 5 very ripe peaches, thinly sliced
• 8 vanilla beans, sliced down the middle
• 2 tablespoons honey

Warm the honey and stir into water. Add the peaches and vanilla beans. Refrigerate at least four hours and serve over ice. 

Blueberry, peach and watermelon

• Blueberries
• Ripe peaches, sliced
• Watermelon, cubed

Combine equal amounts of fruit into a pitcher. Crush fruit. Add water and allow to steep for at least an hour. Serve over ice. Add green tea bags to the mixture for a healthy iced tea.

Orange and Mint

• 2 quarts water
• 3 large oranges, divided into slices
• 10 mint leaves

Place all ingredients in a pitcher and allow to steep for two hours in the refrigerator. Serve over ice garnished with an orange slice and a sprig of mint.