Saturday, June 8, 2013


June has always been a great month.  It is getting warmer, but not too hot.  Although this year, I fear it will be the exception.  It has been warm since April.  June is known as Turkey Lover’s Month and World Naked Bike Ride Month, now that would really be something to watch and I’m afraid laugh at.  But June is also National Ice Tea Month.  There is nothing like a cold glass of ice tea to sooth your thirst and cool you down just a bit.

Most teas can be served hot or cold.  And this one is no exception.  It contains iron and potassium and can help you’re digestive system.  I have just the ice tea for you.

Basil Tea, iced or hot.  I have used this tea over vegetables and meat and even in soups. You know tea is not just for drinking anymore.   Anyway, give this one a try.  Either hot or cold.

 

Basil Tea      2 cups

 3 Tablespoon chopped fresh basil leaves
Add chopped leaves to a teapot and add 2 cups boiling water.
Let steep 5 to 10 minutes
You can either strain into a cup to filter the basil leaves or pour them into the cup and eat/drink them with the tea.
Add sugar to taste. 
Pour over ice if you want it cold.

 

 Here’s another Basil idea….Basil Lemonade

1 cup water
Also 3 cups cold water
1 cup sugar (or use sugar substitute, but check measurements)
1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed firmly
2 cups ice
Frozen lemonade, small can or packet powdered lemonade
¼ cup lemon juice

In a small saucepan over medium heat , bring 1 cup water and sugar to a boil.
Lower heat and cook until the sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes
Remove the saucepan from the heat.
Add fresh basil leaves, cover and let stand for at least 30 minutes.
If you would like to add a tea bag for added flavor, please do.
Fill a pitcher with 2 cups of ice.
Strain the sugar/basil syrup into the pitcher.
Discard the basil.
Stir in 3 cups cold water and packet or small  can of lemonade.
Makes about 6-7 cups of Basil Lemonade Ice Tea.

Check out by cookbook, In Addition…to the Entrée on Amazon.com