Refreshing Iced Teas To Keep Yourself Cool This Summer

Posted on: May 6, 2024 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Refreshing Iced Teas To Keep Yourself Cool This Summer

Summers mean higher UV, extreme dehydration and the constant need for iced teas! Packed with flavor, antioxidants, and surprising health benefits, homemade iced teas are a delightful way to stay hydrated and cool off. Whether you're looking for a classic green tea infusion, a calming herbal blend, a burst of fruity flavor, or a trendy matcha creation, a perfect iced tea recipe is waiting to be discovered.

Green Tea Infusions: A Classic with a Twist

Green tea, a well-known superfood, is a powerhouse of health benefits. It's loaded with antioxidants that help fight free radicals in the body and boasts metabolism-boosting properties. Steeped green tea forms the base for a multitude of refreshing iced tea concoctions:

• Classic Green Tea:

Brew your favorite green tea (loose leaf or bags) according to package instructions. Let it cool completely, then add ice and a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime for a simple yet revitalising drink. For sweetness, consider natural options like honey, agave nectar, or a few drops of stevia.

• Peach Iced Green Tea:

Add sliced peaches and a sprig of fresh basil to your green tea while steeping. This combination creates a delightful summery flavor with a hint of sweetness from the peaches and a refreshing herbal note from the basil.

Herbal Blends for Relaxation: Unwind with Every Sip

Looking to unwind after a long day? Herbal tea blends offer a caffeine-free option to soothe your mind and body:

• Chamomile Lavender Iced Tea:

This calming combination promotes relaxation and restful sleep. Steep equal parts chamomile and lavender flowers in hot water, then let it cool completely. Sweeten with a touch of honey if desired. Chamomile is known for its calming properties, while lavender has a relaxing aroma that can help ease stress.

• Lemon Balm Iced Tea:

Lemon balm tea is known for its stress-relieving properties. Brew lemon balm leaves alone, or combine them with lemongrass for an extra citrusy kick. Lemon balm is a natural relaxant, making this iced tea a perfect choice for winding down in the evening.

Fruit-Infused Iced Teas: A Burst of Flavor and Vitamins

Fresh fruits add a burst of natural sweetness, vibrant flavours, and essential vitamins to your iced tea:

• Berrylicious Black Tea:

Steep black tea with a medley of fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. Muddle some of the berries for extra flavour and serve over ice. This vibrant iced tea is packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, making it both delicious and healthy.

• Citrus Cooler Green Tea:

Thinly sliced oranges, lemons, and limes add a delightful citrus twist to green tea. This vitamin C-rich iced tea is perfect for a hot summer day. The citrus fruits not only add flavour but also provide a healthy dose of vitamin C, which can help boost your immune system.

Iced Matcha Creations: A Trendy Twist on Green Tea

Matcha, a finely ground green tea powder, offers a concentrated dose of antioxidants and a unique, slightly grassy flavour. Here are some creative ways to enjoy iced matcha:

• Vanilla Matcha Latte:

Whisk matcha powder with a little hot water until smooth. Pour over ice and top with chilled milk and a touch of vanilla extract for a creamy and refreshing drink. This iced tea latte combines the health benefits of matcha with the cool comfort of a classic latte.

• Sparkling Matcha Cooler:

For a fizzy twist, whisk matcha powder with a little water, then pour it over ice and top with sparkling water. Staying hydrated with healthy beverages like this sparkling matcha cooler can be a great way to support your overall well-being and potentially reduce the need for medical attention.

Summers are also a time when a lot of health issues might crop up due to the heat and dehydration. These things can also lead to hospitalisation and unplanned out-of-pocket expenses. health insurance can help cover the costs of unexpected medical emergencies, so be armed with one to secure yourself and your family.

Cold Brew Teas: Smooth and Refreshing

Cold brew tea is a smooth and less bitter alternative to traditionally brewed iced tea. Here's how to make it, and remember, a balanced diet that includes healthy beverages can complement a health insurance plan:

• Steep your favourite tea leaves (black, green, or herbal) in cold water for 12-24 hours in the refrigerator. Strain out the leaves and enjoy your cold brew tea over ice. This method allows for a slower extraction of flavour, resulting in a smoother and less bitter iced tea compared to traditional hot brewing.

• For a fruity twist, add sliced fruits like berries or citrus peels to the cold brew while steeping. The fruits will slowly infuse their flavour into the tea, creating a subtly sweet and refreshing drink.

• You can also experiment with spices like cinnamon or ginger for a unique flavour profile. Cinnamon can add a touch of warmth and complexity to your iced tea, while ginger can provide a refreshing zing.

Conclusion

With so many delicious and healthy options to choose from, there's an iced tea perfect for every taste bud and occasion this summer. So ditch the sugary drinks, grab your favourite tea leaves or herbs, and get creative! With a little experimentation, you'll be whipping up refreshing and healthy iced teas that will keep you cool and hydrated all summer long.

Remember, a balanced diet that includes plenty of fluids is essential for good health. While healthy iced teas can be a part of this balanced diet, they are not a substitute for health insurance.

Health insurance provides peace of mind, knowing you're covered in case of unexpected medical situations.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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