Strawberry Citrus Iced Tea

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Strawberry Citrus Iced Tea is a delightful and refreshing beverage perfect for those warm summer days or any time you need a little pick-me-up. This recipe combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tangy zest of citrus fruits, creating a vibrant drink that's as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. It's a wonderful way to use up those fresh strawberries and citrus fruits that might be sitting in your kitchen. Plus, it's a family-friendly drink that everyone can enjoy, from kids to grandparents.

This iced tea pairs beautifully with light and fresh dishes. Consider serving it alongside a crisp garden salad, a platter of assorted cheeses and crackers, or even a simple grilled chicken sandwich. It's also a lovely accompaniment to a summer picnic spread, complete with sandwiches, fresh fruit, and a few sweet treats. For a special touch, serve the tea in mason jars with a sprig of fresh mint and a slice of lemon or orange on the rim.

Ingredients

• 4 cups water

• 4 black tea bags

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

• 1 orange, sliced

• 1 lemon, sliced

• ¼ cup honey or sugar (optional, to taste)

• Ice cubes

• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan.

2. Remove from heat and add the tea bags. Let steep for 5–7 minutes, depending on how strong you like your tea.

3. While the tea is steeping, prepare the strawberries, orange, and lemon by washing and slicing them.

4. Remove the tea bags and stir in honey or sugar, if using, until dissolved. Allow the tea to cool to room temperature.

5. In a large pitcher, combine the cooled tea with the sliced strawberries, orange, and lemon.

6. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.

7. Serve the tea over ice cubes in glass jars or cups, garnished with fresh mint leaves.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Chill Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Caffeine-Free Version: Use herbal tea bags instead of black tea.

• Enhanced Citrus Flavor: Add a splash of freshly squeezed orange or lemon juice.

• Sparkling Twist: Top off the tea with a splash of sparkling water just before serving.

• Alternative Fruits: Experiment with different fruits, such as raspberries or peaches, for a unique twist.

• Adult Version: If you're serving this to adults, a splash of vodka or rum can turn this into a delightful summer cocktail.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the strawberry citrus iced tea in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Serving Tip: If storing with ice, use large cubes or add ice just before serving to prevent dilution.

• No Freezing: Freezing changes the texture and flavor of the strawberries and tea.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries for iced tea?

Yes! Frozen strawberries work well for strawberry iced tea. Just thaw them slightly before blending, or blend straight from frozen for a colder, slushier texture.

2. What kind of tea is best for iced tea?

Black tea is the classic choice, but green tea, white tea, or herbal teas like hibiscus also pair beautifully with strawberries.

3. How long can I store strawberry iced tea?

Homemade strawberry iced tea can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate over time.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing the tea and allowing it to chill in the refrigerator enhances the flavors.

5. Is this recipe suitable for children?

Yes, this strawberry citrus iced tea is family-friendly and can be enjoyed by all ages.

6. Can I adjust the sweetness?

Certainly! You can modify the sweetness by adjusting the amount of honey or sugar to suit your taste.

7. Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, alternatives like maple syrup, agave nectar, or stevia can be used instead of honey or sugar.

8. Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, if you use plant-based sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar, the recipe is vegan-friendly.

9. Can I add other fruits?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or peaches for a unique twist.

Conclusion

Strawberry Citrus Iced Tea is a delightful and refreshing beverage that combines the natural sweetness of strawberries with the zesty brightness of citrus fruits. Whether you're looking for a cool drink on a hot day or a unique beverage to serve at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. With its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors, it's a drink that everyone can enjoy.

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Strawberry Citrus Iced Tea

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A vibrant and refreshing iced tea combining the natural sweetness of strawberries with the zesty brightness of citrus fruits, perfect for warm days or anytime you need a refreshing pick-me-up.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes (steeping)
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Steeping and chilling
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

4 cups water

4 black tea bags

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

1 orange, sliced

1 lemon, sliced

¼ cup honey or sugar (optional, to taste)

Ice cubes

Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Remove from heat and add the tea bags. Let steep for 5–7 minutes, depending on how strong you like your tea.
3. While the tea is steeping, prepare the strawberries, orange, and lemon by washing and slicing them.
4. Remove the tea bags and stir in honey or sugar, if using, until dissolved. Allow the tea to cool to room temperature.
5. In a large pitcher, combine the cooled tea with the sliced strawberries, orange, and lemon.
6. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Serve the tea over ice cubes in glass jars or cups, garnished with fresh mint leaves.

Notes

• For a caffeine-free version, use herbal tea bags instead of black tea.
• Add a splash of freshly squeezed orange or lemon juice for enhanced citrus flavor.
• Top off the tea with sparkling water just before serving for a sparkling twist.
• Try alternative fruits like raspberries or peaches for a unique flavor.
• For an adult version, add a splash of vodka or rum to make a summer cocktail.
• Store iced tea in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; add ice just before serving to avoid dilution.
• Frozen strawberries can be used; thaw slightly or blend frozen for a slushier texture.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 70
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 5mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg