Strawberry Pomegranate Iced Tea

Strawberry Pomegranate Iced Tea (8 servings)

**Ingredients:**

- Water: 8 cups (divided)

- Black Tea Bags: 8 (regular size)

- Strawberries: 1 cup, hulled and sliced

- Pomegranate Juice: 1 cup (100% pure juice)

- Sugar: 1/2 cup (adjust to taste)

- Fresh Lemon Juice: 1/4 cup (about 2 lemons)

- Ice cubes

- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Brew the Tea:**

- In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.

- Remove from heat and add the tea bags. Let steep for 5-7 minutes, or according to package instructions for desired strength.

- Remove the tea bags and discard.

2. **Prepare the Strawberry Infusion:**

- In a separate small saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil.

- Add the sliced strawberries and simmer for 5 minutes.

- Remove from heat and let the strawberries steep for another 5-10 minutes to infuse the water with flavor.

- Strain the strawberry-infused water into a bowl, pressing down on the strawberries to extract all the juice. Discard the solids.

3. **Combine the Ingredients:**

- In a large pitcher, combine the brewed tea, strawberry-infused water, pomegranate juice, sugar, and fresh lemon juice.

- Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved.

4. **Chill:**

- Refrigerate the strawberry pomegranate iced tea for at least 1 hour to chill and allow the flavors to meld.

5. **Serve:**

- Fill glasses with ice cubes.

- Pour the chilled strawberry pomegranate iced tea over the ice cubes.

- Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.

6. **Enjoy:**

- Stir gently before serving and enjoy your refreshing and flavorful strawberry pomegranate iced tea!

Tips for Success:

- **Sweetness:** Adjust the amount of sugar based on your preference and the sweetness of your strawberries.

- **Variations:** You can add more sliced strawberries or pomegranate arils to the pitcher for extra flavor and visual appeal.

- **Make Ahead:** This tea can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

This delightful beverage is perfect for quenching thirst on a hot day or serving at gatherings. Enjoy!