Soda & Iced Tea (rg) Recipe

Brew the tea

Bring 6 cups of water to a near boil in a kettle or saucepan, then remove from heat.

Add 6 black tea bags to the hot water and steep 4 to 5 minutes for a medium-strength tea (steep up to 6 minutes for stronger flavor).

Remove and discard the tea bags, pressing gently against the side of the pot with a spoon to extract a little extra flavor if desired.

While the tea is still warm, stir in 3 tablespoons granulated sugar until fully dissolved (adjust quantity to taste).

If using, stir in 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice now for brightness. Allow the tea to cool to room temperature, about 20–30 minutes.

Transfer cooled tea to a pitcher and refrigerate until thoroughly chilled, about 1–2 hours. When serving, fill glasses with ice (about 1/2 to 1 cup per glass) and pour chilled tea over ice. Garnish each serving with a lemon slice and a mint sprig if desired.

Fill a tall glass with about 1 cup ice.

Pour 12 oz club soda or seltzer over the ice.

If you like a sweeter or flavored soda, add 1 teaspoon simple syrup or 1–2 teaspoons flavored syrup (adjust to taste) and stir gently to combine.

Squeeze a lime or lemon wedge over the soda and drop the wedge into the glass for extra aroma and flavor. Serve immediately.

For a sparkling iced tea: fill a glass half full with chilled brewed tea (about 6 oz), then top with 6 oz club soda or lemon-lime soda. Add ice if desired and stir gently to combine. Garnish with a lemon slice.

For a float: pour 6 oz chilled tea into a glass and top with 6 oz club soda or soda of choice, then add one scoop of vanilla ice cream. Serve with a long spoon and straw immediately.