Iced Green Pomegranate Tea Recipe

Heat Water

Bring 4 cups of water to just under a boil (about 175–185°F / 80–85°C). If you don't have a thermometer, bring to a gentle simmer and remove immediately so it's not fully boiling.

Steep Tea

Add 2 tsp loose-leaf green tea (or 4 tea bags) to the hot water. Steep for 2–3 minutes for a bright, slightly vegetal flavor. Avoid steeping longer than 3 minutes to prevent bitterness.

Sweeten While Warm

Remove the tea leaves or tea bags. While the tea is still warm, stir in 2 tbsp granulated sugar (or 2 tbsp simple syrup) until fully dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.

Cool to Room Temperature

Let the sweetened green tea cool to room temperature (about 15–20 minutes). To speed cooling, place the container in an ice bath or refrigerate for 10–15 minutes, but avoid diluting with ice yet.

Combine Juices

Measure 1 cup pomegranate juice. Once the brewed green tea has cooled to room temperature, pour 1 cup of the tea into a pitcher and add the 1 cup pomegranate juice. Stir gently to combine until evenly mixed.

Adjust Balance

Add 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavor. Taste and adjust: add a little more lemon if it needs more brightness or an extra 1/2 tbsp simple syrup if you prefer sweeter.

Chill

Fill a 16 oz serving glass with about 1 cup ice (or to taste). Pour the combined green tea and pomegranate mixture over the ice, leaving a small gap at the top for garnish.

Garnish & Finish

Top with 2 tbsp pomegranate arils and a few fresh mint leaves, if using. Give the drink a gentle stir and serve immediately.

Make-Ahead Note: The brewed sweetened green tea and pomegranate mixture can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 48 hours. Add ice and garnishes just before serving to prevent dilution and soggy garnishes.