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unsweetened lime iced green tea served over ice with lime slice

Unsweetened Lime Iced Green Tea

Crisp, unsweetened iced green tea with bold lime aroma from fresh peel and a touch of lime juice for gentle acidity. Clean, refreshing, and sharply focused — pure tea with citrus lift, no sweetness.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Drinks
Calories: 5

Ingredients
  

GREEN TEA BASE
  • 1.65 L water
  • 6-7 item green tea bags Sencha or China Green
LIME INFUSION
  • 2 strips lime peel green part only; no white pith
  • 1-2 tbsp fresh lime juice to taste
TO SERVE
  • item ice
  • item lime peel or a thin lime slice

Method
 

  1. Heat the water to 75–80°C (167–176°F), do not boil. Add the green tea bags and steep for 2–3 minutes maximum. Remove the tea bags without squeezing and let the tea cool to lukewarm.
  2. Add the lime peel strips to the warm tea. Let infuse for 5–8 minutes only, just until a pronounced lime aroma develops. Remove the peel promptly to prevent bitterness.
  3. Once the tea has cooled to room temperature, stir in 1 tablespoon of lime juice. Taste and add up to 1 additional tablespoon only if needed. The acidity should be light and refreshing, not sharp.
  4. Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until fully cold and crisp.
  5. Fill glasses with ice, pour over the chilled lime green iced tea, and garnish lightly with lime peel or a thin slice if desired.

Notes

  • Lime flavor here comes primarily from peel, not juice — this keeps the tea unsweetened but aromatic.
  • Never infuse lime peel cold or for extended periods; bitterness develops fast.
  • Green tea must stay light and clean; oversteeping ruins this drink instantly.
  • Best consumed within 24 hours for peak freshness and clarity.