Southerners have long embraced the art of staying cool during hot and humid summer months. Two of their go-to remedies for beating the heat are sweet tea and watermelon. The good news is that you can combine these two methods to make a delightful and refreshing drink: watermelon and basil iced tea. Besides being a delicious summer treat, this iced tea is also packed with health benefits from its ingredients.
Picking Your Tea
Choosing the right type of tea is important for both the flavor and health benefits. Green and black tea are excellent options for this recipe. They provide a perfect backdrop for the watermelon’s sweetness and reap numerous health advantages. Drinking at least three cups of green or black tea daily has been revealed to lower one’s risk of stroke by 21% and reduce cholesterol levels compared to those who drink less than a cup per day.
Watermelon Benefits
Watermelon not only adds a refreshing taste to your tea but also offers a range of health benefits. Make sure to choose a ripe one that has matured after July 1st to maximize its antioxidant content. A study published in the journal Current Atherosclerosis Reports looked at the effects of consuming watermelon and found that it helps improve blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
Basil Boosts
The basil in this watermelon and basil iced tea adds more than just a hint of flavor. Basil leaves are known to possess compounds with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Incorporating basil into your drink ensures that you can enjoy a tall, cool glass of iced tea and feel good about it.
Watermelon and Basil Iced Tea Recipe
Ingredients:
- 8 cups boiling water
- 8 tea bags (green or black tea)
- 1/8 of a medium-sized watermelon, cut into small triangles
- 1 small bunch of fresh basil sprigs
Instructions:
- Pour 8 cups of boiling water into a heat-resistant pitcher.
- Add 8 tea bags and let steep for 10 minutes.
- Remove and discard the bags, and then let the tea cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Before serving, add the watermelon and basil, and pour over ice.
A Perfect Summer Drink
Watermelon and basil iced tea is the ideal drink to quench your thirst and help you remain cool during the hot summer months. It is also packed with health benefits from its key ingredients: black or green tea, watermelon, and basil. This deliciously refreshing beverage is both enjoyable and guilt-free. So go ahead, have a glass or two, and stay cool this summer!
