The Best Classic Lemon Verbena Iced Tea Recipe
If you're looking for a refreshing and aromatic beverage that’s perfect for warm days, look no further than classic lemon verbena iced tea. This delightful drink combines the citrusy notes of lemon verbena with the invigorating qualities of tea, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe that you can easily whip up at home.
Ingredients
- 4 cups of water
- 4 teaspoons of loose black or green tea (or 4 tea bags)
- 1 cup fresh lemon verbena leaves
- 1/2 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh lemon slices (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Start by boiling 4 cups of water in a medium saucepan. Once it reaches a rolling boil, remove it from heat.
Step 2: Add 4 teaspoons of loose tea or 4 tea bags to the hot water, along with the fresh lemon verbena leaves. Allow the mixture to steep for 5-7 minutes. The longer the tea steeps, the stronger the flavor will be.
Step 3: After steeping, strain the tea into a large pitcher to remove the tea leaves and lemon verbena. If you prefer a sweeter iced tea, this is the time to stir in the sugar, mixing until it's completely dissolved.
Step 4: Let the tea cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until it is chilled. This usually takes about 1-2 hours.
Step 5: Serve the lemon verbena iced tea over ice cubes in tall glasses. Garnish with fresh lemon slices for an extra burst of flavor and to enhance the visual appeal.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Verbena Iced Tea
For the best results, consider the following tips:
- Experiment with different types of tea. Green tea brings a fresh taste, while black tea offers a more robust flavor.
- If you prefer a caffeine-free version, opt for herbal tea as your base.
- Adjust the sugar according to your taste preference, or use honey or agave syrup as a natural sweetener.
- Add a few sprigs of fresh mint or other citrus herbs for a unique twist.
Health Benefits of Lemon Verbena
Lemon verbena is not just delicious; it also packs a punch when it comes to health benefits. Known for its digestive properties, it can help soothe an upset stomach. Additionally, lemon verbena is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your body from oxidative stress and support overall well-being.
Enjoying a glass of this classic lemon verbena iced tea not only quenches your thirst but also serves as a refreshing, healthy choice for hydration. Perfectly suited for summer parties, picnics, or simply relaxing on your porch, this iced tea recipe is sure to impress your guests.
Next time you're in the mood for a delightful drink, whip up this classic lemon verbena iced tea recipe, and savor the exceptional flavor and health benefits it has to offer!