Drinking Water: Whats the deal with putting cucumber slices in water?
Cucumber slices are a garnish, like lemon or mint, that restauranteurs use to make the water pitcher (or glass) more eye-catching. If you’re seeing more of them lately in Bay Area restaurants, it’s because cucumber season here begins in May. People who like them say cucumber slices add a “refreshing” taste to water. Others, especially those trying to stay away from artificially sweetened beverages, appreciate anything that adds a pop of flavor to an otherwise bland drink. Even cucumber fans might not ’em sliced into their water, though, because the veggie can get soggy. But cucumbers are cheaper than lemons; I suspect that’s why pro-water-garnish restaurants have them.
