Iced tea is a refreshing, healthy drink for summer. Most people don't think of iced tea made with anything but black tea. But, green, oolong or herbal teas also make delicious iced tea. Some of my favourites iced are Blue Moon oolong tea, Peachy Keen green tea, Green Goddess yerba mate, and Chili Chai black tea. 

And, it's easier to make than you think! Here are two ways, brewed hot or cold, to make iced tea.

TIP: Use a tea pot or tea press for easy tea infusion, or use a reusable tea bag or paper tea bag in a pitcher.

1 - Hot Brew

Put the kettle on!

Make hot tea as you normally would and cool it down gradually. 

1. Scoop 1 tsp of tea per 1 cup of water in a pitcher or your favourite tea pot or tea press.
2. Heat water to recommended temperature (see Tea Tips).
3. Pour over tea and steep.
4. Remove tea or press down on your tea press.
5. Cool to room temperature.
6. Add ice and serve.
7. Optional: Add sweetener of choice, and/or a squeeze of lemon or lime.

Or, make a concentrated brew with more leaves than normal, and shake over ice.

1. Scoop 1 tbsp of tea per 1 cup of water in a pitcher or your favourite tea pot or tea press.
2. Heat water to recommended temperature (see Tea Tips).
3. Pour over tea and steep.
4. Remove tea or press down on your tea press.
5. Fill a mason jar or other lidded vessel with ice.
6. Pour the tea over the ice, secure the lid.
7. Shake until tea is at desired temperature.
8. Optional: Add sweetener of choice, and/or a squeeze of lemon or lime.

TIP: If your tea ends up bitter, you've added too much tea, or brewed it too long.

2 - Cold Brew

Minimal prep time, maximal brew time.

Make this cold brew about 8 hours before serving for full flavour.

1. Fill a pitcher or your favourite tea pot or tea press with cold or room temperature water.
2. Scoop 2 tsp - 1 tbsp of tea per 1 cup of water.
3. Add tea to water.
4. Steep at room temperature or in the refrigerator for approximately 8 hours. 
5. When at desired strength, serve over ice.
6. Optional: Add sweetener of choice, and/or a squeeze of lemon or lime.

TIP: Add slices of fruit like oranges, watermelon, or lemon for a festive look, and added flavour.

Keep iced tea in the fridge for up to a week. 

Time for a cocktail? Try this recipe: Hibiscus Ginger Lime Tea Cocktail