Simple Iced Green Tea with Mint
This Simple Iced Green Tea with Mint is a wonderfully refreshing, zero-sugar beverage perfect for hot days. It's incredibly easy to make and offers a healthy, cost-effective alternative to store-bought drinks.
For 4 servings
Heat 1 liter of water to approximately 80°C (175°F). This is hot, but not boiling, which helps prevent green tea from becoming bitter.
Place the green tea bags and fresh mint sprigs into a heatproof pitcher or large jar.
Pour the hot water over the tea bags and mint. Let steep for exactly 3 minutes. Do not oversteep, as this can lead to a bitter taste.
Carefully remove the tea bags and mint sprigs from the pitcher. Discard them.
Allow the tea to cool down to room temperature on your countertop, which typically takes about 30-60 minutes.
Once cooled, transfer the pitcher to the refrigerator and chill completely for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly cold.
To serve, fill glasses with plenty of ice cubes. Pour the chilled green tea over the ice.
Garnish each glass with a few thin slices of fresh lemon and an extra sprig of mint, if desired. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use filtered water for the best flavor, as tap water impurities can affect the taste of delicate green tea.
- 2Adjust steeping time: If you prefer a stronger tea, steep for up to 4 minutes, but be mindful of potential bitterness. For a milder tea, reduce to 2 minutes.
- 3Make ahead: This iced tea can be made up to 3-4 days in advance and stored in a sealed pitcher in the refrigerator.
- 4Don't use boiling water: Boiling water can 'burn' green tea leaves, extracting tannins that result in a harsh, bitter flavor.
Adapt it for your goals.
Sweetened Version
For a touch of sweetness, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of honey, agave nectar, or a sugar substitute while the tea is still warm, allowing it to dissolve completely before chilling.
Fruity TwistFruity Twist
Add slices of cucumber, orange, or a handful of berries (like raspberries or blueberries) to the pitcher along with the lemon slices before chilling for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Ginger KickGinger Kick
Include a few thin slices of fresh ginger root during the steeping process for a subtle, warming, and zesty undertone.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Green tea is packed with catechins, powerful antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Supports Hydration
As a zero-calorie, sugar-free beverage, iced green tea is an excellent way to stay hydrated, especially during warmer weather, without added sugars or artificial ingredients.
Boosts Metabolism
The combination of caffeine and catechins (specifically EGCG) in green tea has been shown to potentially boost metabolism and aid in fat burning.
Frequently asked questions
Absolutely! For loose leaf green tea, use approximately 1 tablespoon (about 5-7g) per liter of water. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve after steeping to remove the leaves.
