Strawberry Iced Tea
There is something so special about an ice cold refreshing drink on a hot summer day. This exact idea is what inspired this Strawberry Iced Tea recipe. One of my favorite drinks in hot and cold weather is green tea. Green tea is perfect because it tastes delicious weather served hot or cold. I personally prefer hot tea, but this recipe was the first exception I've made of tasting even better.
I always see recipes for fresh fruit flavored desserts and drinks that require a cup or more of white sugar. For those of you who are trying to eat cleaner these days, this is not the best ingredient for weight loss, or healthy living. When I make my green tea throughout the year I always use honey and lemon to sweeten my tea. This gave me the idea to attempt a similar summer drink recipe using honey instead of sugar for the natural strawberry flavoring. Not only was it a great idea, but this Strawberry Iced Tea is absolutely delicious, AND you feel no guilt knowing the ingredients are healthy and simple. It really is a win-win situation!
For those of you who have allergies to strawberries the best part about this recipe is you can use any fruit you would like following the exact same steps. I think I'm going to try mango next time! 🙂
Ingredients
- 8 cups water 1 cup off to the side
- 8 green tea bags
- 2 cups strawberries quartered
- 1 cup honey 1/4 cup to the side
- 2 lemons
Instructions
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In two separate pots boil your 7 cups of water, and 1 cup of water, over medium high heat until both pots are boiling.
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When your 1 cup of water begins to boil add your strawberries and 1/4 cup of honey to the pot. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
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Once your large pot of water has started boiling, turn the pot off (to avoid a fire) and add your tea bags to the pot. Let them soak in the water for 10-15 minutes to be sure all of the flavoring has gotten in the water. (I used the Yogi tea "energy" brand/flavor for my tea).
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Once your strawberries have cooked down, using a small holed strainer, pour the strawberry mixture in the strainer to separate the liquid and food. Throw the food away once all the liquid has drained out.
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In your pot of tea, discard the tea bags, and pour your tea into a 2 quart pitcher.
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Add your strawberry flavored sweetener to the pitcher, as well as, your remaining 3/4 cup honey. Stir until well combined.
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Cut your lemon into halves and add lemon juice to taste. Stir well. (I love the lemon flavor in my tea so I used about 1 and 3/4 of my lemons and sliced the last 1/4 for garnish in the pitcher).
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Fill a glass half way with ice, pour your strawberry iced tea over it, and enjoy your refreshing drink!