
Lemon ginger water is a bright, refreshing way to start your day. It’s the perfect companion to any morning ritual.
It’s easy to make, and with just two simple ingredients, you can create a drink that’s hydrating and packed with flavor.
I’ve written about the benefits of drinking lemon water before, and this variation adds the warm, spicy kick of fresh ginger.
For one glass, squeeze the juice from a quarter of a large lemon into a mug, add about 1/4 inch of grated fresh ginger and fill it with warm or cold filtered water. For a pitcher, slice 1 lemon and a 1-inch piece of ginger into about 4 cups of water and let it infuse in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Why Lemon Ginger Water?
Lemon and ginger have been kitchen staples for centuries. Together they make a refreshing, invigorating drink with a little tang and a little heat.
Plus, it’s a great way to stay hydrated and add some zest to your daily water intake.
Health Benefits of Lemon Ginger Water:
- Settles the Stomach: Ginger has long been used to help soothe an upset stomach.
- A Little Vitamin C: Fresh lemon juice adds a bit of vitamin C to your glass.
- Helps You Drink More Water: If plain water bores you, a little lemon and ginger makes it a lot easier to stay hydrated.
- Nearly Calorie-Free: It’s a flavorful swap for juice or soda.
While lemons are a key ingredient in this refreshing drink, they can sometimes be expensive, especially if you’re using them regularly. To make the most of your lemons and save some money, you can easily modify this recipe to use more or less lemon. Simply quarter your lemon or slice half a lemon into thin rounds and add it to your water along with the ginger.
Single Serving:
- 1/4 of a large lemon
- 1/4-inch fresh ginger, grated (or sliced for a more mild flavor)
- optional: add a dash of turmeric for color and a warm, earthy flavor
Single Serve Instructions:
Cut a lemon into quarters. Squeeze the juice from one quarter into a mug or glass, then add the ginger. Fill with filtered water and enjoy.
Batch Servings:
Serves 4
- 1 lemon, washed and sliced, seeds removed
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger

Batch Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by washing the lemon and ginger thoroughly. Slice the lemon into thin rounds and remove the seeds. Peel the ginger and slice it into thin pieces or grate it for a stronger flavor.
- Infuse the Water: Fill a pitcher with about 4 cups of water. Add the lemon slices, squeezing them as you add them, and ginger to the water. For a more intense flavor, you can gently muddle the ginger and lemon in the water.
- Let It Sit: Allow the mixture to infuse for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. For a stronger taste, you can leave it to infuse overnight and use it over the next 4 days.
- Serve: Pour the lemon ginger water into a glass, and if desired, add a few ice cubes for a refreshing chill. You can also garnish with a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint for an extra touch of freshness.
- Enjoy: Sip and enjoy the refreshing taste of your homemade lemon ginger water!
Hot or Cold Water?
When making lemon ginger water, you have the option to use either cold or hot water, depending on your preference and the desired effect. Each method offers its own unique benefits:
Using Cold Water:
- Refreshing: Cold lemon ginger water is incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day or after a workout. It’s a great way to cool down and rehydrate.
- Infusion Time: Cold water infusions take longer, so you’ll need to let your lemon and ginger sit in the water for a few hours or overnight to fully extract the flavors.
Using Hot Water:
When using hot water, keep it very warm but not boiling, since high heat can break down some of the vitamin C in the lemon.
- Quick Infusion: Hot water extracts the flavors of lemon and ginger more quickly, so you can enjoy your drink sooner. This is ideal if you’re short on time or want a warm beverage.
- Soothing: A warm cup of lemon ginger water can be soothing, especially during colder months or if you’re feeling under the weather. It’s comforting and can help ease a sore throat.
Ultimately, the choice between cold and hot water comes down to personal preference and the occasion. If you’re looking for a quick, comforting drink, hot water is the way to go. For a more refreshing and leisurely infusion, cold water is your best bet. Either way, you’ll have a delicious, hydrating drink.

Lemon Ginger Water FAQs
Does lemon ginger water help with weight loss?
It isn’t a fat burner, no matter what the internet says. What it can do is replace sugary drinks with something refreshing and nearly calorie-free, and staying hydrated is always a good thing.
Can I drink lemon ginger water every day?
For most people it’s simply a tasty way to drink more water. Lemon is acidic, so if it bothers your stomach or your teeth, use a little less lemon or follow it with a glass of plain water.
Should I peel the ginger?
Peeling gives you the cleanest flavor, and the edge of a spoon scrapes the thin skin right off. Grate it for a stronger, spicier drink or slice it for a milder one.
How long does lemon ginger water last?
A pitcher keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavor gets stronger the longer the lemon and ginger sit in the water.
Love ginger? Try my Ginger Shots or a warm mug of Golden Milk.
PrintLove this recipe? Don’t lose it.
Save it (and every recipe you love, from any website) in Butler, my recipe & meal planning app. Start with my free 5-minute system for planning a week of meals.
You’re in! Check your inbox for my 5-minute system.
2-Ingredient Lemon Ginger Water
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 1
- Category: Drink
- Method: slice
- Cuisine: American
Description
Make this refreshing 2-ingredient Lemon Ginger Water with fresh lemon and ginger. Enjoy it warm or cold, one glass at a time or by the pitcher.
Ingredients
- Juice of 1/4 lemon (cut a washed lemon into quarters and remove the seeds)
- 1/4 inch piece of fresh ginger, grated (or sliced)
- filtered water
Instructions
Cut a lemon into quarters. Squeeze the juice from one quarter into a mug or glass, then add the ginger. Fill with filtered water and enjoy.
Notes
Tips & Variations:
- Adjust the Intensity: Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon and ginger according to your taste preferences. More ginger will add a spicy kick, while more lemon will make it tangier.
- Add Sweetness: If you prefer a slightly sweeter drink, you can add a teaspoon of honey, maple syrup, or a few drops of stevia.
- Boost the Nutrition: Add a dash of turmeric to your lemon ginger water for even more nutritional benefits.
- Boost the Flavor: Enhance the flavor by adding other ingredients like cucumber slices, fresh mint leaves, or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
- Stay Hydrated: Keep a pitcher of lemon ginger water in your fridge to ensure you stay hydrated throughout the day. It’s a delicious alternative to plain water!
Lemon ginger water is a simple, refreshing drink, and this 2-ingredient recipe is an easy addition to your daily routine.
Give it a try and enjoy the refreshing goodness of lemon ginger water!





This lemon ginger water is a simple and refreshing detox recipe.