Harvard Tea
Harvard Tea is a refreshing, mint-infused lemonade tea perfect for hot days, offering a sweet, tangy flavor with a cool mint finish that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put tea bags in boiling water; remove from heat and let steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Mix sugar and lemonade in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Remove the syrup from heat; add 9 sprigs of mint.
- Let the mixture set for 10 to 15 minutes; then lift out the mint sprigs.
- Pour the tea and syrup mixture into a gallon jar.
- Fill the jar with water.
- Add more sugar if necessary to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a less sweet version, reduce the sugar to 1 cup or substitute with a natural sweetener like agave syrup. You can use herbal or decaffeinated tea bags if preferred. Fresh lemon juice can replace frozen lemonade for a more vibrant flavor. Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the overall taste. Experiment with different tea varieties for unique flavor profiles.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Harvard Tea over ice with fresh mint leaves for garnish. It pairs beautifully with light snacks, such as Sugar And Spice Walnuts or a fruit platter. This drink is perfect for summer gatherings or as a refreshing afternoon beverage. Consider serving it alongside savory dishes like sandwiches or salads for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Harvard Tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If serving cold, you can add ice directly to the jar or glass for refreshing drinks on hot days.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Harvard Tea contains roughly 231 calories, with 3g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (68% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Harvard Tea in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Harvard Tea in advance. It's best to make it a day before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together. Just store it in the refrigerator, and remember to stir well before serving. You can also add ice just before serving to maintain its refreshing quality.
Is it possible to make a non-caffeinated version?
Absolutely! You can easily make a non-caffeinated version of Harvard Tea by using herbal tea bags instead of traditional black or green tea. This way, you can enjoy the delightful flavors without the caffeine, making it a great option for all ages, especially in the evening.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the tea?
If you find the Harvard Tea too sweet for your taste, you can simply adjust the sugar amount during preparation. Start with less sugar and gradually add more until you reach your desired sweetness. Additionally, using fresh lemon juice instead of frozen lemonade can also help balance the sweetness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).