Lo-Cal Drink

Prep: 5 min Cook: 2 min Serves: 2 Cuisine: American

A refreshing low-calorie lemon-infused drink with a hint of sweetness, perfect for hot days or as a light, flavorful beverage. Suitable for those watching their calorie intake.

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Ingredients

  • ReaLemon juice
  • 1 tea bag
  • 3 packets artificial sweetener
  • 1/2 tsp lemon extract
  • 8 oz hot water
  • 8 oz cold water

Instructions

  1. Steep the tea bag in boiling hot water for 2 minutes.
  2. Place 3 ice cubes in each 10-ounce glass.
  3. Remove the tea bag and add ReaLemon juice, artificial sweetener packets, lemon extract, and cold water.
  4. Stir briskly to combine all ingredients.
  5. Pour the mixture over the ice cubes in each glass and serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a more robust flavor, try using a flavored tea bag, such as lemon or herbal. If you prefer a sweeter drink, adjust the number of artificial sweetener packets to your taste. You can substitute ReaLemon juice with fresh lemon juice for a more vibrant flavor. Additionally, feel free to add fresh mint leaves for an extra refreshing twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this refreshing drink in tall glasses over ice, and garnish with a lemon slice for a touch of elegance. It pairs beautifully with Honey Mustard Pretzels or a light salad for a perfect afternoon snack. Consider serving it at brunch events or summer gatherings for a delightful, low-calorie beverage option.

Storage & Reheating

This drink is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To enjoy it cold again, simply pour over fresh ice. Avoid reheating as the tea may become bitter when warmed.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Lo-Cal Drink contains roughly 14 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.

14 kcal 1% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.7g 1% DV
Total Fat 0.2g
Carbs 2.5g 1% DV
Fiber 0.4g 1% DV
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 371mg 16% DV
Potassium 22.9mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1.1mcg
Calcium 22.7mg 2% DV
Iron 0.1mg 1% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal 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 different types of tea for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can experiment with various tea flavors such as green tea, chamomile, or even flavored herbal teas to customize the taste of your drink. Just ensure that the tea complements the lemon flavor for the best results.

Is there a way to make this drink more fruity?

Yes! You can add freshly squeezed fruit juices such as orange or lime juice to enhance the fruity flavor. Additionally, muddling some fresh berries or adding slices of citrus fruits can give your drink a refreshing twist.

Can this drink be made ahead of time?

While this drink is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the tea base in advance and store it in the fridge. Just mix in the lemon juice and sweeteners right before serving to maintain the freshness and flavor.

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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