Barley Free Green Tea Citrus Lemonade
This refreshing drink is the kind of thing you'll want to make on repeat all summer long — bright, citrusy, and just a little earthy from the green tea. Fresh lemon and orange juice give it a bold, layered tartness that store-bought lemonade simply can't match, while maple syrup adds a gentle sweetness that feels a touch more interesting than plain sugar. The technique of steeping the tea without squeezing the bags is a small but smart move that keeps the flavor clean and smooth rather than bitter. Everything in this recipe is naturally free from grain-based additives, so you can sip without second-guessing the ingredient list. It comes together in one pitcher with no special equipment beyond a fine-mesh strainer, making it an effortless crowd-pleaser for backyard gatherings or a quiet afternoon on the porch. Pile on the ice, tuck in a sprig of mint, and you've got a drink that looks as good as it tastes.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the green tea base
- 3 cups water
- 3 green tea bags
- ¼ cup maple syrup
For the citrus blend
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (from about 4 lemons)
- ¼ cup fresh orange juice (from about 1 large orange)
- 1 cup cold water
For serving
- 2 cups ice cubes
- 4 lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
- 4 fresh mint sprigs, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a small saucepan, then remove from the heat. Add the green tea bags and steep for 3 minutes, until the tea is a clear, pale gold-green color. Remove and discard the tea bags — do not squeeze them, as this releases bitter tannins.
- 2
Stir the maple syrup into the hot tea until fully dissolved. Let the sweetened tea cool to room temperature, about 20 minutes, then refrigerate until cold, at least 10 minutes.
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