Lemon Iced Tea

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

Refreshing and tangy Lemon Iced Tea offers a perfect balance of citrus flavor and sweetness, ideal for hot days or casual gatherings seeking a cool, flavorful beverage.

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Ingredients

  • 4 small tea bags
  • 4 cups boiling water
  • 8 cups cold water
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar

Instructions

  1. Place the tea bags in a heatproof container and pour boiling water over them.
  2. Let the tea steep for about 5 minutes, then remove the tea bags.
  3. Stir in the sugar until fully dissolved.
  4. Add the cold water and mix well.
  5. Allow the tea to cool completely in the refrigerator before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a refreshing twist, consider adding fresh mint leaves or a splash of lemon juice when serving. If you're looking for a sweeter version, you can substitute the sugar with honey or agave syrup. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference. Using herbal tea bags can also create unique flavors, perfect for those exploring vegan recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Lemon Iced Tea in tall glasses filled with ice, garnished with lemon slices and fresh mint leaves for an extra touch. This drink pairs beautifully with Betty Culver'S Spicy Peach Salad or Glorified Peanuts, making it an excellent choice for summer gatherings or picnics.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Lemon Iced Tea in a sealed pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To maintain its freshness, avoid adding ice directly to the tea; instead, serve it over ice when ready to drink. If it becomes too sweet, a splash of lemon juice can help balance the flavors.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Lemon Iced Tea contains roughly 678 calories, with 18g protein, 154g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (194% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (100% of the Daily Value), and protein (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 28g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

678 kcal 34% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 18g 36% DV
Total Fat 5.5g 7% DV
Carbs 154.1g 56% DV
Fiber 27.9g 100% DV
Sugar 0.7g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 215.6mg 9% DV
Potassium 1430.6mg 30% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin C 174.2mg 100% DV
Calcium 216.8mg 17% DV
Iron 5.6mg 31% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat

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 use loose leaf tea instead of tea bags?

Yes, you can use loose leaf tea! Just use about 2 tablespoons of loose tea per 4 cups of boiling water. Place the loose tea in a tea infuser or a fine mesh strainer to steep and remove it after 5 minutes.

How can I make this recipe lower in sugar?

To reduce the sugar content, try using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Start with half the amount of sugar and adjust to your taste. You can also enhance the flavor with additional lemon juice for a tangy kick.

Is it possible to make this tea with flavored teas?

Absolutely! Flavored teas like peach or raspberry can add a delightful twist to your Lemon Iced Tea. Just ensure the flavors complement the lemon, and adjust the sugar accordingly, as flavored teas may already contain 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).

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