Tea is the world’s second most consumed beverage after water, and with the heat still sticking around, there’s no better time to enjoy a refreshing homemade iced tea.

These delicious brews not only help you stay hydrated but also offer incredible health benefits. Whether you’re looking for a fruity, herbal, or classic blend, here are six must-try tea recipes to keep you cool all season long.

FYI, The recipes below are made with loose-leaf tea, as mainstream plastic tea bags can release up to 11 billion microplastics in a single cup. That is why we rave about stainless steel tea strainers. Enjoy! ✨

1. Mint and Lime Peppermint Tea

Peppermint tea is known for its refreshing, cooling properties, which are perfect for summer. It’s great for soothing digestion and pairs beautifully with lime, which adds a tangy citrus punch and a dose of vitamin C.

How to Brew:

• Steep 2 teaspoons of peppermint tea leaves in boiled water for 5 minutes.
• Let it cool and pour over ice.
• Add a handful of fresh mint leaves and a squeeze of lime.
• Optional: Sweeten with a touch of honey or maple syrup

2. Cool as a Cucumber Lemongrass and Ginger Tea

Lemongrass and ginger tea is a fragrant blend that can soothe the stomach, boost immunity, and reduce inflammation. When paired with hydrating cucumber slices, this iced tea is the ultimate refreshing drink for a hot day.

How to Brew:

• Steep 2 teaspoons of lemongrass and ginger tea in hot water (approx. 80 degrees) for 5 minutes.
• Let it cool and pour over ice.
• Add thin slices of cucumber and garnish with a slice of lemon or lime for a citrusy kick.
• Optional: Sweeten with a touch of honey or maple syrup.

3. Zesty Raspberry Lemonade

Red raspberry tea is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, magnesium, and potassium, which can help keep you hydrated and energised. Mixing it with lemonade creates a tangy, fruity homemade iced tea that’s perfect for summer sipping.

How to Brew:

• Steep 2 teaspoons of red raspberry tea in hot water (approx. 80 degrees) for 5 minutes.
• Cool and mix with equal parts of your favourite lemonade.
• Serve over ice with fresh raspberries and a slice of lemon for garnish.

4. Iced Matcha with Lemon

More people are swapping coffee for matcha, and it’s easy to see why! Unlike coffee, matcha provides a steady, crash-free energy boost thanks to L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes focus and calm without the jitters. It’s also packed with powerful antioxidants, including EGCG catechins, which support immunity and healthy skin. Its earthy flavour pairs beautifully with a touch of citrus and honey for a refreshing, energising iced tea.

How to Brew:

• Whisk 1 teaspoon of matcha powder with 60 ml of hot water (approx. 80 degrees) until frothy.
• Let it cool, then pour over ice.
• Add 1/2 lime or lemon juice (and sweeten with honey if necessary).
• Optional: Garnish with a slice of lime or a mint sprig.

5. Tropical English Breakfast Ice Tea

English breakfast tea is rich in antioxidants that can support heart health, improve digestion, and reduce oxidative stress. Its moderate caffeine boosts focus, while L-theanine promotes relaxation. This refreshing mango twist adds a sweet, summery flavour to your usual tea, making it the perfect drink for any time of day.

How to Brew:

• Steep 2 teaspoons of English Breakfast tea in hot water (approx. 80 degrees) for 5 minutes.
  
• Add 1/2 cup of fresh (or frozen) mango or a splash of mango puree.
• Strain through a sieve or cheesecloth (we use our nut milk bag) and squeeze out as much as possible.
• Pour over ice and garnish with a slice of lime for a final touch.

6. Vibrant Butterfly Pea Tea

Butterfly pea tea is famous for its vibrant blue hue (see here) and its natural antioxidants, including proanthocyanidins, which are great for skin health and reducing inflammation. When mixed with lemon juice, this tea transforms into a stunning purple shade. One of the prettiest teas around!

How to Brew:

• Steep 2 teaspoons of butterfly pea tea in hot water (approx. 80 degrees) for 5-10 minutes.
• Cool and pour over ice.
• Add 1/2 lemon juice to enhance both the flavour and the colour.
• Optional: Sweeten with a touch of honey or maple syrup.

Why We Choose Plastic-Free, High-Quality Loose Leaf Tea

 At Go For Zero, we’re passionate about reducing plastic waste and protecting our health, which is why we encourage using stainless steel or reusable cotton tea strainers instead of plastic tea bags (which shed over 11 billion microplastics into a single cup)! But we also care about the quality of tea, ensuring it retains all its natural benefits. That’s why we LOVE the Loose Tea Co. and Nurtur Tea, both offering organic and wild-crafted blends that preserve the full goodness of herbs and spices, giving you the tastiest and eco-friendly tea experience.

I hope you enjoy these recipes and never hesitate to reach out if you have any questions at askusanything@goforzero.com.au.

Happy brewing, 

Ellie xxx