Description

When the sun is shining and the days are long, there’s nothing quite like a tall, frosty glass of Strawberry Iced Tea to cool you down and lift your spirits.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

5 cups water, divided

2 black tea bags (or green tea, if preferred)

⅓ to ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)

1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed

Ice, for serving

Fresh mint or extra strawberry slices, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Make the strawberry syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, 2 cups of water, and your sugar of choice. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and stir occasionally until the strawberries break down and release their juices, about 10–12 minutes.

Strain the syrup: Remove from heat and strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a heatproof bowl or pitcher. Use the back of a spoon to press out all the juice. Discard the solids or save them as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.

Brew the tea: While the syrup cools, bring the remaining 3 cups of water to a boil. Remove from heat, add the tea bags, and let steep for 5–7 minutes, depending on desired strength. Remove tea bags and let the tea cool slightly.

Combine and chill: In a large pitcher, combine the cooled strawberry syrup, brewed tea, and lemon juice. Stir well and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours to chill completely.

Serve over ice: Fill glasses with ice and pour the strawberry iced tea over. Garnish with fresh mint, lemon slices, or extra strawberry slices if desired.

Notes

Use ripe in-season strawberries for maximum sweetness and color
Don’t over-steep the tea or it may become bitter
Strain well to avoid pulp in your final drink
Adjust sweetness before chilling to suit your taste
Add a squeeze of lemon to brighten the strawberry flavor and balance the sweetness

Prep Time: 10
Cook Time: 10
Category: Drinks
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6
Calories: 60 kcal
Sugar: 13g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g

Keywords: Strawberry Iced Tea