Raise a glass to those sunny days ahead with our deliciously refreshing Sweet Citrus Mint Iced Tea Recipe.
As soon as the weather starts to shape up, many of us start planning the first alfresco meal of the year. For some, that may be a convivial family barbecue with typical fare such as burgers, hot dogs, macaroni salad, and corn on the cob. Others may look forward to something fancier, like lunch with friends on a beautifully laid table with things like delicate quiches, salads, and grilled vegetables. Whatever your preference, one thing is certain: iced tea is always a welcome addition.
Sure, you could buy some ready-made iced tea or even some powder that you simply stir into water, but making a refreshing pitcher yourself is not only easy, but also considerably more delicious. To make our sweet citrus mint iced tea, all you need is some tea bags, fresh mint, citrus juice, and a little sweetener. That, and some patience, as this tea does need to steep and then chill for at least two hours. But your patience will be rewarded with a zesty drink that celebrates sunny days and quenches your thirst like no other.
Delicious variations
Want to give this tea a fruity kick? Add in some sliced strawberries or peaches and replace two cups of the cold water with either strawberry or peach juice. To make an adults-only version, consider adding a shot of Cointreau, bourbon, or brown rum to the tea. Instead of mint, you could also try thyme. Its earthy sweetness pairs very well with the citrus flavors in this tea. If you’re not fond of using artificial sweeteners, add honey or maple syrup to taste. Finally, the choice of tea is totally up to you. Black tea or green tea will work well, and you can even try flavored teas.
How do I store leftovers?
Your homemade iced tea will stay well in a closed pitcher in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Serving suggestions
Pair your iced tea with a variety of warm-weather classics perfect for the sunny season ahead. Light up the grill and enjoy it with a Bacon Cheeseburger or our zingy Lemon Macaroni Salad. We also love it with our Sweet-And-Spicy Grilled Wings and a side of Grilled Asparagus.
Sweet Citrus Mint Iced Tea Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 cups water divided
- 4 tea bags
- 8 fresh mint sprigs plus extra for garnish, if desired
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 8 packets zero-calorie sweetener of choice
- Ice to serve
- Slices of lemon, lime, or orange and mint sprigs for garnish, if desired
Instructions
- Bring 4 cups of the water to a boil and pour it into a teapot. Add the tea bags and mint. Cover the pot and let the tea steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Combine the remaining 4 cups of water, lemon juice, lime juice, orange juice, and sweetener in a large pitcher. Stir well until the sweetener is dissolved.
- Remove the tea bags and mint from the tea mixture. Add the tea to pitcher and stir well. Chill for at least 2 hours.
- Serve over ice with a slice of citrus fruit and a sprig of mint, if desired.
Geez that looks refreshing. I’m going to make a pitcher today. I’m always looking for new drinks to try with less calories.
Wow, this looks really yummy. The perfect treat for a warm day!
For some weird reason I never developed a liking for tea or coffee about the only hot beverage I consume is hot chocolate for these mean northeast winters. These shots look great I wish I did like Tea!
My favorite warm weather drink is an Arnold Palmer.
YUM! Iced tea is the perfect summer time drink. Add citrus and mint and it sounds delicious!
This looks so refreshing – perfect for summer! Thanks for sharing at Merry Monday!
Yummy!! I love iced tea, especially to close a hot summer day:)