I made this tasty treat one day when looking for something refreshing while sitting on the patio, reading a book.  It has a surprising twist on iced tea and was just was I was looking for.  Don’t be scared by basil, it has a fresh and unique flavor! Plus its a low-calorie treat that is kind to your summer bikini body!

Strawberry Basil Sun Tea

 

Supplies:

2 liter pitcher with cover (or you can use plastic wrap)

Cutting Board

Knife

Mixing Spoon

Ingredients:

2 Large or Family Size Cold Brew tea bags

6-8 Large Strawberries

4-5 Leaves of Basil

3-5 Packets of Stevia (or sweetener of choice)

Ice Cubes

Directions:

1.  Fill 2 liter pitcher with room temperature water.
2. Open 2 tea bags and submerge in the water.
3. Cover and place in a sunny spot outside for 1-2 hours or until it has reached desired strength
4. Cut up strawberries and add to the tea
5. Tear the basil leaves into smaller pieces and add
6. Add sweetener to desired level of sweetness.  I don’t like mine super sweet so I added 3 packets of Stevia
7. Add ice cubes and/ or place in fridge until chilled
8. Pour, garnish and enjoy!

Speed Method:

1. Bring 6 cups of water to a boil in a sauce pan
2. Add tea bags and steep for about 5 minutes or until you have reached desired strength. Discard tea bags.
3. Remove from heat and add basil leaves.  Steep for 10 minutes then remove basil
4. If adding regular sugar, add to hot tea to desired sweetness and dissolve completely.  If using an artificial sweetener, remove tea from the heat and mix in your sweetener until completely dissolved.
5. Add strawberries and stir.
6. Add ice and/or place in fridge until chilled.
7. Pour, garnish and enjoy!

I’d love to hear what you think and what your favorite summer drink is.  Hope everyone is enjoying their summer and staying cool!