Orange Mint Tea

Bright, cool, and perfectly refreshing! This orange mint “tea” doesn’t actually include tea at all! Fresh mint is gently steeped just like tea leaves, creating a naturally sweet, citrusy drink that’s delicious served cold. Try it with honey for a softer sweetness and enjoy the taste of fresh spring mint in every sip.

YIELD: 8 servings | PREP: 15 mins | COOK: 15 mins

Ingredients

  • 3 cups water
  • 6 sprigs mint (fresh, each about 6 inches, well-rinsed)
  • 1/3 cup sugar (or to taste, or 1/4 cup honey)
  • 2 cups orange juice (fresh)
  • 1/2 cup lemon juice (fresh)
  • Cold water (to fill the pitcher to the top)
  • Ice cubes (to fill the pitcher to the top)
  • Garnish: fresh mint sprigs, thin slices of orange or lemon

Directions

  1. Gather the ingredients.
  2. In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups water to a boil, add the mint, and cover.
  3. Remove from heat and steep for 15 minutes or longer.
  4. Remove mint, add 1/3 cup sugar (or honey), and stir until dissolved.
  5. Combine orange and lemon juices in a 2-quart serving pitcher. Add the mint concentrate and enough cold water and ice to fill the pitcher to the top.
  6. Chill thoroughly and serve garnished with fresh mint sprigs and thin slices of orange or lemon.

Tip: This concentrate may be cooled and frozen for later use, if desired.