Maybe it was the pastel pink and green with adorable little watermelons so craftily designed on the tin can, or the words “mint to be” on the lid that drew me in. I had to investigate the new Watermelon Mint Tea at Trader Joe’s.
Not quite certain that I’d enjoy a hot cuppa, I held out for the promise of a spectacular summer iced tea. Made with black tea from Indonesia, spearmint from the Northwest, and dried watermelon, I was amazed that this tea is quite delicious hot! Add a splash of milk product (dairy or nondairy, your choice) for a delightful after dinner treat.
This recipe, however, is iced. I recently found myself in a pinch having to make drinks for unexpected guests. I think it was a Thursday and they were super thirsty. With no chance of going to the store, I had to work with what I had on hand, so not all ingredients can be found at Trader Joe’s. Brace yourself, though, the ingredients sound like an unlikely combo but the taste makes my mouth sing the anthem for Summer 2019 (which is yet to be determined).
Summer Anthem Iced Tea
6 oz Trader Joe’s Mint Watermelon Flavored Black Tea
1 ½ ounce of Ketel One Botanical Peach & Orange Blossom Vodka
½ to 1 oz WTRMLN Water or pureed watermelon
2 tsp of simple syrup (see recipe below)
2 sprigs of fresh mint
1 big squeeze of lime
I highly recommend brewing a big batch of Mint Watermelon Flavored Black Tea and let it cool ahead of time. Add all ingredients, except lime, to a shaker with ice. If you don’t have a shaker use a glass big enough to whisk vigorously in. Then shake it, shake it, shake it don’t break it. Or whisk with a spoon until your bicep starts to burn.
Pour contents into another glass through a strainer. Add a squeeze of lime. Next, take the mint in one hand and lightly smack it with the other hand. I know, sounds weird, but this is what all the cool mixologists are doing. Apparently, it releases the aroma of the herb more. Place the mint in the drink and enjoy making summer memories. Cheers!