Iced Teas Recipe

Boil water

Bring 4 cups of fresh, cold water to a rolling boil in a kettle or saucepan.

Steep tea

Remove the boiling water from heat and add 4 black tea bags. Cover and steep for 4 to 5 minutes for a full-bodied brew. For stronger tea steep up to 6 minutes; for lighter tea reduce to 3 minutes.

Sweeten (optional)

While the tea is still hot, stir in 2 tablespoons granulated sugar until fully dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness as desired.

Cool down

Discard or gently squeeze out the tea bags, then allow the tea to come toward room temperature for about 15 minutes.

Chill and serve

Fill a large pitcher or individual glasses with about 3 cups of ice. Pour the cooled tea over the ice to rapidly chill. Add lemon slices and mint leaves if using. Stir gently and serve immediately. Makes about 4 servings.

Heat water

Heat 4 cups of water until it reaches about 175–185°F (just before boiling). If you don't have a thermometer, remove water from a boil and let sit 1–2 minutes.

Steep tea

Add 4 green tea bags to the hot water and steep for 2 to 3 minutes. Steep longer for stronger flavor but avoid over-steeping to prevent bitterness.

Sweeten (optional)

While warm, stir in 1 tablespoon honey or agave until dissolved. Adjust to taste.

Cool down

Remove tea bags and allow the tea to cool to room temperature, about 10–15 minutes.

Chill and serve

Fill a pitcher or glasses with 3 cups of ice. Pour the cooled green tea over the ice. Add lime slices and cucumber slices if desired. Stir gently and serve immediately. Makes about 4 servings.