Ultimate Strawberry Citrus Iced Tea for Summer

Refreshing Strawberry Iced Tea

When the summer sun blazes and you’re in need of a cooling treat, this Refreshing Strawberry Iced Tea is just the thing to quench your thirst. I stumbled upon this gem on the back of a frozen strawberry package, and it quickly became a favorite for those hot days when a light, fruity beverage is exactly what you need. The strawberries lend their natural sweetness, so if you prefer a lighter touch of sugar, feel free to adjust the quantity to your taste. This iced tea is a delightful blend of vibrant strawberries and tangy lemon, perfect for sipping on a sun-soaked afternoon. Here’s how you can whip up this refreshing drink in no time at all!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups frozen strawberries
• 32 ounces brewed tea (preferably cooled)
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup white sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Strawberries:

   • Take 5 strawberries out of the bag and set them aside for later use. These will be used as garnishes for a touch of fresh flavor and color.

2. Blend the Berries:

   • With the remaining frozen strawberries, place them in a blender or food processor. Blend until the berries are completely smooth and pureed.

3. Strain the Puree:

   • Using a fine mesh strainer, strain the pureed strawberries into a bowl or pitcher to remove the seeds. Discard the seeds, leaving behind a smooth, vibrant strawberry puree.

4. Mix the Ingredients:

   • In a large pitcher, combine the strained strawberry puree with the brewed tea. Stir in the lemon juice and the desired amount of sugar. Start with 1/4 cup and taste; you can add more sugar if you prefer a sweeter tea.

5. Chill:

   • Place the pitcher in the refrigerator and chill until you are ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures that your tea is nice and cold.

6. Serve:

   • When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice and pour the chilled strawberry iced tea over the ice. Garnish each glass with a reserved strawberry for a lovely presentation.

Notes:

• Adjusting Sweetness: Since strawberries vary in sweetness, start with the lower amount of sugar and adjust to taste. If you prefer a less sweet iced tea, you can also omit the sugar altogether or use a sugar substitute.

• Tea Options: You can use any kind of brewed tea you prefer—black, green, or even herbal teas work well with this recipe. Just ensure that the tea is cooled before mixing it with the strawberry puree.

• Variations: For an added twist, try infusing your tea with a hint of mint or basil before mixing it with the strawberry puree.

This recipe yields about 5 servings, perfect for a small gathering or family treat. Enjoy the refreshing taste of summer with every sip of this delightful strawberry iced tea. Cheers to sunny days and delicious drinks! 🌞🍓🧊