One my favourite food bloggers (Heather at Diary of a Fanatic Foodie) often posts beverage recipes. I enjoy some of daring creations, both of the alcoholic and non-alcoholic varieties. A few months back she posted about her “Perfect Spring and Summer Drink” – a lemonade/iced tea combo accented with basil and mint.

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It was the combination of everything that really appealed to me. It sounded so refreshing. So at the first opportunity that I was hosting some people over for dinner I thought I would bring it out, and every other time we’ve had company, I have made it. It’s evolved a little from Heather’s rendition. But isn’t that what cooking, baking and creating should be about? Finding something you like and really making it yours?

If you are looking for something refreshing, easy to make, and still impresses, make a pitcher of this and keep it in the fridge, the flavours really come together overnight, so be sure to let it mingle.

Ingredients:

3 peach tea bags I used the Lipton White Tea with Mango and Peach Flavours
2 pomegranate tea bags
2 cups boiling water
1 can lemonade, pink or yellow, doesn’t really matter
2 handfuls torn mint
8 basil leaves
½ tsp grated fresh ginger (approximate)
2 lemons, washed and juiced Keep the carcass of the lemons as you will add these to the pitcher for more flavour
2 Tbsp real Maple Syrup
1 bottle (750 mL) sparkling soda water Adds a nice fizz to the drink

Directions:

1. Steep tea for a good 5-8 minutes in boiling water, remove and cool tea in fridge.

2. Once tea is cooled, in a pitcher combine all ingredients except for the sparkling soda water, mix. If you have the time, refrigerate at this point

3. Once you are ready to serve, pour in the soda water. Serve and enjoy!