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Glass mugs of iced tea on a tray.
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Iced Tea

Delicious on its own or mixed with lemonade in an Arnold Palmer, iced tea is a classic, refreshing beverage for a hot day.
Course Drinks
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 4 servings (1 cup each)
Calories 4kcal

Ingredients

  • 4 cups water (see note 1)
  • 5 black tea bags (see note 2)
  • Ice for serving
  • lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

  • In a medium pot over medium-high heat, bring water to a rolling boil. Remove from heat and add tea bags. Allow to steep 5 minutes. Remove tea bags and cool to room temperature or chill.
  • Fill a large pitcher halfway with ice. Add tea, then top with more ice. Serve in glasses with ice and lemon slices on the side for garnish.

Notes

  1. Water: To use a tea kettle, bring 4 cups water to boil. In a large measuring cup or bowl, pour boiling water over tea bags.
  2. Black tea: I have been drinking PG Tips since 1998 and it’s my absolute favorite, but feel free to use your own favorite black tea.
  3. Yield: This recipe makes 4 cups of iced tea, enough for 4 (1-cup) servings.
  4. Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  5. Sweeteners: Add sugar, simple syrup, or your favorite sweetener to taste.
  6. Garnish: Try wedges of lime instead of lemonade, especially if you're eating Mexican food.
  7. Sweet tea: This is best made in a concentrated form and diluted with water. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil, then add 6 black teabags and submerge completely. Steep for 5 minutes, then remove tea bags. Stir in 1/2 cup sugar (or more to taste) and stir until dissolved. Chill overnight. To serve, add 2 quarts cold water and serve with ice and lemon slices.
  8. Arnold Palmer: Combine equal parts iced tea and lemonade for the ultimate summer beverage.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cup | Calories: 4kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 6mg | Potassium: 19mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 3IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 7mg | Iron: 1mg