Strawberry-Basil Iced Tea

You know what makes me super happy? When big, luscious strawberries are "Buy 1, Get 1 Free" at the grocery store. Know what makes me super sad? When I don't eat them fast enough and they turn into sad, wrinkly strawberries. Whomp whooomp.

I'm here to rescue you from having to experience the berry blues! If your berries are less-than-beautiful, you can still salvage them without having anyone in your household look at you like, "Why are you serving me substandard berries?" Because once you blend them up in this thirst-quenching beverage, they'll have imparted their strawberry flavor and fulfilled their fruity destiny without being judged for their appearance. It's a win-win for everyone.

May is National Strawberry Month {shouldn't every month be?} and this is the perfect way to celebrate the occasion!

As a matter of fact, it wouldn't be a bad idea to whip up a pitcher or two for any of your summer celebrations.

A fun twist on iced tea, this drink surprises the palate with the taste of ripe strawberries and the fresh flavor of basil. Don't care for basil? Swap it out for some mint instead for a cooling treat.

Have some stunning strawberries that you wouldn't mind putting in the spotlight? Check out some of the recipes from my friends at Driscoll's!

Disclosure: I received a gift card and product coupons in exchange for this post. As always, the opinions here are all my own!

Strawberry-Basil Iced Tea

The Kitchen Prep

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Prep Time 5 mins

Cook Time 15 mins

Total Time 20 mins

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Servings 4 Servings

Ingredients

  

• 4 cups water
• 4 black tea bags
• ¼ cup sugar
• ¼ cup water
• 4-5 large basil leaves chopped or torn
• About ½ a package of Driscoll's Strawberries

Instructions

 

• Bring water to a boil {in kettle or microwave}. Add 4 tea bags and steep until desired strength is achieved.
• Meanwhile, bring sugar and ¼ cup water to a boil in a small saucepan; simmer for 1 minute or until sugar is completely dissolved. Toss in basil leaves and allow to steep for about 10 minutes.
• When tea and sugar syrup are ready and slightly cooled, strain into a blender with strawberries. Blend for a minute or two, until mixture is completely smooth.
• Using a mesh strainer, strain the mixture into a pitcher, pressing on the solids to remove any juice. Discard solids.
• Pour over ice to serve.

Notes

*If you prefer your tea sweeter, you can increase the amount of syrup you add. Simply use equal parts of sugar to water in making your syrup.