Microwave Iced Tea
A refreshing and sweet iced tea, perfect for hot days or entertaining guests, with a smooth, brewed flavor and the right balance of sweetness and chill.
Ingredients
- 1 gallon size tea bag ⓘ
Instructions
- Place one gallon size tea bag (Tetley recommended) in a container and cover with 12 ounces of water.
- Microwave on High for four minutes.
- Let sit for five minutes.
- Pour the brewed tea into six cups of water and stir in one cup of sugar to sweeten.
- Cover the same tea bag with another 12 ounces of water and microwave on High for four minutes.
- Let sit for five minutes, then pour the brewed tea into the first mixture.
- Add six cups of water without sugar to the mixture.
- Refrigerate overnight for best flavor before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor twist, consider adding a few sprigs of fresh mint or slices of lemon during the brewing process. If you prefer a less sweetened version, reduce the sugar or substitute with a natural sweetener like stevia. Be sure to allow the tea to cool fully before refrigerating it overnight for the best flavor. This recipe is perfect for summer gatherings and pairs beautifully with Delicious Cabbage Slaw.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the iced tea in tall glasses filled with ice, garnished with fresh mint or lemon slices for an appealing look. This refreshing drink is great as a stand-alone beverage or paired with light summer meals. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or Cornish Hen for a delightful contrast. It's also a wonderful complement to light desserts.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover iced tea in a sealed pitcher in the refrigerator for up to a week. If the tea becomes too concentrated over time, you can dilute it with additional water before serving. For best results, do not freeze the tea as it can alter the flavor. Just give it a good stir before serving to refresh it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Iced Tea contains roughly 235 calories, with 5g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (101% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 11g 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 use loose tea instead of a tea bag?
Yes, you can use loose tea instead of a tea bag. Use about 1/4 cup of loose tea and place it in a tea infuser for brewing. Follow the same microwave instructions, and adjust the steeping time as needed based on the strength of the tea you prefer.
How can I make this recipe without sugar?
To make this recipe sugar-free, simply omit the sugar and consider using a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Alternatively, you can enhance the flavor with natural fruits like berries or citrus slices, which provide sweetness without added sugar.
Is it possible to make flavored iced tea?
Absolutely! You can infuse your iced tea with flavors by adding herbs like basil or fruits such as peaches and strawberries during the brewing phase. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile. This allows for versatility in creating unique iced tea variations.
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).