Ice tea is a classic summer refreshment. (Photo courtesy of Advocate Health)

During summer heat, it is wise to stay hydrated with cool beverages.

It is the perfect time to enjoy a refreshing ice tea alone or with family and friends.

Here is a fool-proof recipe

Ingredients

4 tea bags: regular, decaffeinated, or herbal

4 cups water

Directions

Bring water to a rolling boil. Pour water over tea bags in a teapot, pitcher, or other one-quart container. Let steep 5 to 7 minutes. Remove tea bags. Chill. Serve in glasses over ice.

Serves 4

Instead of adding sugar or artificial sweetener, try adding fruit juice for a new flavor. Mixing 1 cup of tea with 1/2 cup orange juice adds about 56 calories, 1 g protein, less than 1 g fat, 13 g carbohydrates, less than 1 g fiber, and 1 mg sodium.

To make this recipe gluten-free, use only tea that is gluten-free. Read food labels carefully and contact the company if you have any questions.

—– Stay cool with pitcher-perfect iced tea —-