With the weather slowly heating up, staying hydrated is especially important. Although drinking water is your best choice, eating foods high in water content can also be an effective way to supplement one's hydration.
While simply eating a slice of watermelon or cucumber may suffice, you don't have to settle for the basics. Instead, here are some exciting food and recipe ideas that can help keep you hydrated this summer.
Watermelon
When it comes to hydrating fruit, watermelon is probably the most widely recognized, considering water is literally in its name. With 92% water content, watermelon surprisingly isn't the highest on this list, but it's still relatively high.
Watermelon is delicious on its own, but that doesn't mean it can't be made tastier while still enjoying the health benefits. Try watermelon in a salsa, with feta, balsamic, and basil to recreate the viral sandwich, or incorporate it into a melon salad for an extra burst of hydration.
Cucumber
While cucumber-infused water is a familiar and refreshing combination, considering cucumbers are 95% water, consuming them is just as effective. It's also a great low-calorie option for increasing your water intake.
Cucumber is a very versatile piece of produce that can be a solid addition to salad or juiced for a delicious drink. However, they are also great in tzatziki, salsa, and as a base for salads.
Lettuce and Leafy Greens
It's no secret that many leafy greens are comprised mostly of water, especially iceberg and romaine lettuce. While some of the darker greens contain more nutritional value, the lighter ones can still be an excellent source of hydration in the Summer.
When it comes to leafy green recipes, most people probably think of salads first, but that isn't all they're good for. Lettuce can be a solid alternative to buns in a burger or tortillas in a wrap. You can also try adding it to smoothies or even grilling a wedge for a delicious barbecue side.
Strawberries
Another fruit with a surprisingly high water content is the strawberry, weighing in at 92% water. Despite how much more substantial strawberries may seem in comparison, they are a quality hydration alternative to watermelon, depending on your preference.
Like watermelon, strawberries are also incredibly versatile, making them perfect for Summer recipes. They're easy to blend or mash and freeze to make fresh popsicles. You can also pair them with a slice of angel food cake and whipped cream, for a light, refreshing Summer dessert.
Tomatoes
At 94%, tomatoes are one of the most water-rich fruits or vegetables available. They're also high in vitamin C, which can be especially helpful for reducing the common cold if you're engaging in a lot of strenuous outdoor activities this Summer.
While tomatoes make great additions to burgers or salads, they also make wonderful main ingredients. Try blending them into a cold, crisp gazpacho or turning them into a fresh bruschetta topping for grilled bread.
Celery
Another vegetable that can aid in hydration is celery, which contains approximately 95% water. While celery may not always seem like the most nutritious option, it's also high in fiber, giving it added health benefits.
Celery is probably most known for being one of the key ingredients in a mirepoix, but that isn't all it is good for. It's a perfect crunchy addition to chicken salad, delicious when grilled, or awesome for quick snacks like ants on a log.
With Summer 2025 expected to be hotter than average, it's essential to stay hydrated. While it may not always be easy to drink eight glasses a day, eating foods high in water content can be a helpful way to help you meet your goals without feeling overwhelmed.