Fish Free Green Tea Citrus Lemonade

Total time45 min

Prep time10 min

Cook time5 min

4.6

(20)

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. Freshly squeezed lemon and orange juice give it a vibrant, natural tang that no bottled mix can touch, while maple syrup adds a gentle sweetness that feels a little more interesting than plain sugar. The technique of steeping the tea bags without squeezing them is a small but smart move that keeps the flavor clean and mellow rather than bitter. Everything here is completely plant-based and straightforward, so there's zero concern about hidden seafood derivatives or fish-based additives that can sneak into flavored drinks and syrups. It comes together in one pitcher, looks gorgeous over ice with a mint sprig and lemon slice, and is just as welcome at a backyard gathering as it is on a quiet afternoon at home.

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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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