Lemon Ginger Iced Green Tea with Honey

Lemon Ginger Iced Green Tea with Honey

Table of Contents

A refreshing and revitalizing drink, this Lemon Ginger Iced Green Tea with Honey perfectly balances the earthy tones of green tea, the zesty kick of lemon, the warmth of ginger, and the soothing sweetness of honey. This beverage is not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants and health benefits, making it an ideal choice for a hot summer day or a revitalizing afternoon pick-me-up.


Ingredients:

  • 4 cups water
  • 3 green tea bags (or 3 teaspoons loose green tea)
  • 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons honey (adjust to taste)
  • Juice of 1 lemon (plus extra lemon slices for garnish)
  • Ice cubes
  • Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Boil and Brew:

    • In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a gentle boil.
    • Add the sliced ginger and let it simmer for 5 minutes to infuse its flavor.
    • Remove from heat, add the green tea bags, and let steep for 3-4 minutes (for a milder taste) or up to 5 minutes (for a stronger brew).
    • Discard the tea bags and ginger slices.
  2. Sweeten and Cool:

    • Stir in honey while the tea is still warm, ensuring it dissolves completely.
    • Allow the tea to cool to room temperature before adding the lemon juice.
  3. Chill and Serve:

    • Fill a pitcher with ice cubes and pour the cooled tea over them.
    • Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and stir.
    • Garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves if desired.
  4. Enjoy!

    • Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days. Stir before serving.
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Servings:

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings (1 cup per serving).


Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: ~40 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 11g
  • Sugars: 10g (from honey)
  • Protein: 0g
  • Fat: 0g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Vitamin C: ~15% of the Daily Value (from lemon)

Health Benefits:

  • Green Tea: Rich in antioxidants (catechins) that boost metabolism, improve brain function, and enhance fat burning.
  • Ginger: Anti-inflammatory properties, aids digestion, and reduces nausea.
  • Lemon: High in vitamin C, boosts immunity, and promotes hydration.
  • Honey: Natural energy booster and soothing for the throat.

Tips & Notes:

  • Adjust Sweetness: Add more or less honey to suit your taste preference. You can also use stevia or agave as alternatives.
  • Flavor Variations: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or basil for an aromatic twist.
  • Serving Suggestions: Pair this refreshing tea with light snacks like cucumber sandwiches or fruit salad for a delightful afternoon treat.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for maximum freshness.

Q&A:

  • Can I use powdered ginger instead of fresh?
    Yes, but use only ¼ teaspoon of powdered ginger to avoid overpowering the tea.

  • Is this recipe caffeine-free?
    No, green tea contains a moderate amount of caffeine. For a caffeine-free version, use decaffeinated green tea.

  • Can I make this a sparkling version?
    Absolutely! Mix the brewed tea with sparkling water before serving for a bubbly twist.

  • What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
    You can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemons give a more vibrant and natural flavor.

  • Can I make a hot version of this tea?
    Yes! Simply serve it warm without chilling and add a little more honey for a soothing hot drink.

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Final Note:

Lemon Ginger Iced Green Tea with Honey is versatile, delicious, and incredibly healthy. Whether you’re looking to cool off on a warm day or just need an antioxidant boost, this drink has you covered. Enjoy experimenting with different variations to find your perfect blend!