Tennessee Tea
Tennessee Tea is a refreshing and tangy beverage that combines the sweetness of sugar and white grape juice with the vibrant citrus flavor of lemonade and the boldness of instant tea. Perfect for summer gatherings or backyard barbecues, this drink is sure to please guests of all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients in a gallon pitcher.
- Finish filling with water.
- Stir.
- Chill or serve over ice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a balanced flavor, adjust the sugar based on your sweetness preference. If you want to reduce calories, consider using a sugar substitute or a lower-calorie lemonade mix. Instant tea can be swapped with brewed tea for a more robust flavor. Experiment with adding fresh lemon slices for extra freshness or mint for a refreshing twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Tennessee Tea in tall glasses over ice, garnished with lemon slices or fresh mint leaves for a refreshing presentation. This drink pairs beautifully with summer barbecues, picnics, or as a refreshing accompaniment to dishes like Pork Medallions or Pickled Bologna. For a fun twist, consider serving it in a punch bowl for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Tennessee Tea in a covered pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the tea becomes too strong or concentrated over time, add more water or ice before serving. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture and flavor of the juice and tea.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tennessee Tea contains roughly 83 calories, with 6g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value) and protein (13% 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 Tennessee Tea ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Tennessee Tea a few hours in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and refrigerate until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely. If making it a day ahead, keep it chilled and add ice just before serving to maintain freshness.
Is there a caffeine-free version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily make a caffeine-free version by using decaffeinated instant tea or simply omitting the tea altogether. This will still give you a deliciously sweet and tangy drink, perfect for anyone avoiding caffeine.
What can I add to make it more fruity?
To enhance the fruitiness of Tennessee Tea, you can incorporate additional fruit juices like cranberry or pineapple. Adding sliced strawberries, peaches, or oranges can also provide a refreshing twist. For a tropical flair, consider using coconut water instead of regular water.
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).