Nana'S Ice Tea
Refreshing and sweet Nana's Ice Tea combines the zesty flavors of lemon and lime with classic brewed tea, perfect for hot days or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring 6 cups of water to a boil.
- Turn off the heat and place 5 tea bags in the hot water.
- Let the tea steep for a few minutes.
- Squeeze the juice from 2 lemons and 2 limes into the tea.
- Remove the tea bags from the water.
- Add 1 cup of sugar to the tea and stir until dissolved.
- Serve the tea over ice, garnished with lemon and lime slices if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a stronger tea flavor, let the tea bags steep a bit longer, but be cautious as over-steeping can make it bitter. You can substitute regular sugar with honey or agave syrup for a healthier option. If you prefer a less sweet tea, reduce the sugar to half a cup. This recipe can also be made with herbal tea for a caffeine-free version.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Nana's Ice Tea in tall glasses filled with ice, garnished with lemon and lime slices for an appealing presentation. This refreshing drink pairs beautifully with summer dishes like Green Bean-Corn Salad or a light grilled chicken. For a fun twist, consider adding fresh mint leaves or a splash of fruit juice.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover iced tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the tea sits for too long, it may lose its freshness and flavor. To enjoy it chilled later, simply serve over ice again, or add fresh lemon and lime slices for a refreshing boost.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nana'S Ice Tea contains roughly 434 calories, with 9g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (163% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value), and iron (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 16g 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 leaf tea instead of tea bags?
Yes, you can use loose leaf tea. Use about 2 tablespoons of loose tea per cup of water, and steep it in a tea infuser. Just ensure to strain the tea before serving to avoid any leaves in your drink.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
To make Nana's Ice Tea ahead of time, prepare the tea as instructed, then cool it completely before storing it in the refrigerator. This way, it will be ready to serve chilled when your guests arrive, making it perfect for gatherings.
Is there a way to make this recipe lower in sugar?
Absolutely! You can reduce the sugar to half a cup or substitute it with a sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Adjust according to your taste preference, and remember to taste as you go to achieve the desired 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).