Tea A La Russe
A refreshing citrus-infused iced tea with orange, lemon, and mint, perfect for hot days and gatherings, offering a balanced blend of tartness and aromatic freshness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make a good strong tea to serve about 8 glasses.
- Add juice of 4 oranges and 2 lemons to the tea.
- Sweeten the mixture to taste.
- Add cracked ice to cool the beverage.
- Garnish with a few sprigs of mint before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a stronger tea flavor, consider using loose leaf tea instead of tea bags, which can be more robust. You can substitute oranges with grapefruits for a tangy twist, or use honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetener. If you're short on time, pre-made citrus juices can work in a pinch, just make sure they are 100% juice without added sugars.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing tea in clear glasses to showcase its vibrant color. It pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes like Peasant Salad or Mediterranean-Style Roasted Vegetables, making it a great accompaniment for a light lunch or afternoon gathering. Garnish with mint sprigs for an elegant touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, being careful not to boil, as this can alter the flavor. You can also serve it cold over ice for a refreshing drink.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tea A La Russe contains roughly 43 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value).
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 this tea ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tea and mix in the citrus juices ahead of time. Just remember to add the ice and mint garnish just before serving to maintain the drink's freshness and presentation.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Absolutely! The tea can be a fun and fruity beverage for kids. Just adjust the sweetness to their taste and consider using decaffeinated tea, making it a perfect refreshing drink for all ages.
Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
Definitely! You can experiment with other citrus fruits like limes or pomelos, or even add a splash of pomegranate juice for added color and flavor. Just keep the balance of sweetness and acidity in mind.
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).