Step 1: Steep the Tea

Start by boiling 4 cups of water in a medium saucepan. Once it reaches a rolling boil, remove the pan from the heat and add the black tea bags. Allow them to steep for 5 to 7 minutes—shorter if you prefer a lighter flavor, longer for a bolder, more robust brew.

Step 2: Prep the Fruit

While the tea is steeping, prepare your fruit. Wash the strawberries, lemon, and orange thoroughly. Hull the strawberries (removing the green tops) and slice them thinly. Then, slice the orange and lemon into thin rounds or half-moons. Try to keep the slices uniform for even flavor distribution.

Step 3: Sweeten the Tea (Optional)

If you’d like your iced tea to be sweetened, remove the tea bags and stir in honey or sugar while the tea is still warm. This helps the sweetener dissolve more effectively. Stir until fully dissolved, then allow the sweetened tea to cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Combine the Tea and Fruit

Once the tea is cool, transfer it to a large pitcher. Add the sliced strawberries, orange rounds, and lemon slices. Stir gently to combine and help release the juices from the fruit.

Step 5: Infuse in the Fridge

Cover the pitcher and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the fruit flavors to infuse the tea. For a more intense fruity taste, refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours, or even overnight.

Step 6: Serve

When ready to serve, fill tall glasses with ice cubes. Pour the infused tea over the ice. For an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal, garnish each glass with a sprig of mint or a strawberry slice.