Refresher Recipe

Brew tea

Bring 2 cups of water to a near boil. Remove from heat and steep 2 green tea bags (or hibiscus/black tea if preferred) for 3 minutes for green tea (4–5 minutes for stronger teas). Avoid oversteeping to prevent bitterness. Remove tea bags and let the tea cool to room temperature (about 15–20 minutes).

Chill if desired: place brewed tea in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to speed cooling.

While the tea cools, juice one fresh orange until you have 1 cup of orange juice. Add 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice and 1 tbsp lime juice to a small bowl and stir to combine.

Reserve thin orange slices for garnish.

If using simple syrup, measure 2 tbsp. If using honey and it's thick, warm it briefly (5–10 seconds) to loosen, then measure 2 tbsp. Adjust sweetness to taste — add up to 1 tbsp more if you prefer a sweeter drink.

Muddle: In a sturdy glass or cocktail shaker, place 8 fresh mint leaves and 1/4 cup thin cucumber slices. Gently muddle (press and twist) 6–8 times to release mint oils and cucumber flavor without tearing the mint into tiny bits.

Combine: Add the cooled brewed tea (about 2 cups), the citrus mixture (orange + lemon + lime juices), and 2 tbsp simple syrup (or honey) to the shaker or large mixing glass with the muddled herbs and cucumber.

Shake/ Stir: Add a handful of ice (about 1 cup) and, if making a spirited version, add 1.5 oz chilled vodka or light rum. Secure the shaker and shake vigorously for 8–10 seconds to chill and blend. If using a stirring glass, stir for about 20 seconds until well chilled.

Finish: Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with fresh ice (or divide between two glasses for two servings). Top with 1 cup chilled sparkling water or club soda and gently stir once to combine.

Garnish: Add reserved orange slices and a sprig of fresh mint. Optionally tuck a couple of thin cucumber slices along the inside of the glass for presentation.