We’re well into summer now and you’re probably finding yourself reaching for an ice cold beverage every chance you get. Who can bear the thought of hot coffee or tea in this stifling heat? I myself would love to kick back on a hammock on this summer afternoon with a chilled glass of sangria. Of course, it’s not the most “pregnancy-friendly” drink. Luckily, I have a homemade mint iced tea recipe that might just do the trick (and it’ll go really well with the hammock too, though where I’ll find a hammock in the city is beyond me…but a girl can dream!).

My mint iced tea makes for a deliciously refreshing drink and is easy to make - perfect for that outdoor summer party of yours or just for yourself. Believe me, you won’t want to go back to the bottled, preservative-filled, sugar-laden crap they sell in the stores.

Ingredients (Serves 10) 3 cups boiling water
5 cups cold water
2 sprigs of fresh mint
4 tea bags (any kind will do)
1 cup sugar
1 cup orange juice (preferably fresh)
¼ cup lemon juice (preferably fresh)

Directions (Time: 10-15 minutes) 
1. Place tea bags and mint springs in a large pitcher or bowl and add the boiling water. Allow to steep for about 5-8 minutes
2. Remove and discard the tea bags and mint leaves, squeezing out the excess liquid
3. Stir in sugar until dissolved
4. Then add the orange juice and lemon juice
5. Pour in the cold water
6. Chill in the fridge for a couple hours. Before serving, add ice cubes and garnish with orange and lemon slices
7. Serve with a plate of cookies :)