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Summer Drinks — Skip the Coffee Shop Make This at Home - Cool, Refreshing, and Easy

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup strong brewed black tea, chilled (or use green tea for a lighter flavor)
  • 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1–2 lemons)
  • 1–2 tablespoons simple syrup, honey, or agave (adjust to taste)
  • 3/4 cup cold sparkling water (plain or lemon-flavored)
  • Ice (enough to fill your glass)
  • Optional add-ins: a few mint leaves, sliced strawberries, a cucumber ribbon, or a thin lemon wheel
  • Optional pinch of salt (just a pinch to lift the flavors)

Method
 

  1. Brew the tea: Make a strong cup by steeping 1 black tea bag in 1/2 cup hot water for 5 minutes. Remove the bag and chill the tea in the fridge or with a couple of ice cubes.
  2. Prep your glass: Fill a tall glass to the top with ice. Cold ice is key to a crisp, restaurant-style drink.
  3. Sweeten the base: In a small cup, combine the lemon juice and your sweetener. Stir until fully dissolved. If using honey, warm it slightly so it blends easily.
  4. Build the drink: Pour the chilled tea over the ice. Add the sweetened lemon juice. Give it a quick stir to mix.
  5. Add bubbles: Top with sparkling water. Stir gently to keep the fizz.
  6. Finish with flair: Add a pinch of salt if you like, then tuck in mint, berries, or a lemon slice. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
  7. Serve right away: This is best cold and fresh, with plenty of ice and bubbles.