Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea

Name: Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 3 cups strawberries (sliced); 2 cups water (for syrup); 1 cup sugar (for syrup); 3 cups boiling water (for steeping tea); 3 family-sized Lipton original tea bags; 8 cups cold water; 1 lemon (juiced); Ice

Published: June 8, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious batch of Southern strawberry sweet tea in no time.
Refreshing Flavor: The combination of strawberries and lemons creates a sweet yet tangy drink that is perfect for summer.
Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual party, this tea fits right in at any event.
Healthy Alternative: Made with fresh ingredients, it’s a tasty option compared to store-bought sugary drinks.
Perfectly Sweetened: Adjust the sugar to your taste preference—it’s customizable for everyone!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Southern strawberry sweet tea, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Medium saucepan
Mesh strainer
Large bowl
Pitcher
Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Medium saucepan: Essential for cooking the strawberries and sugar to create your homemade syrup.
Mesh strainer: Helps separate the strawberry pulp from the syrup, ensuring a smooth sweet tea.

Ingredients

Juicy strawberries, a bit of sugar, and some lemons—along with just a few simple steps—make this Southern strawberry sweet tea an easy summer favorite.

Ingredients:
– 3 cups strawberries, (washed and stems removed then sliced (should measure three cups after they are sliced))
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup sugar
– 3 cups boiling water
– 3 family-sized Lipton original tea bags
– 1 cup sugar
– 8 cups cold water, (in a large pitcher)
– 1 lemon, (juiced)
– 1 lemon, (cut into slices or wedges for garnish in glass)
– 6 to 8 strawberries, (washed but leave stems on, with a cut on the bottom for garnish on the glass)
– ice

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea

Step 1: Cook Strawberries

In a medium saucepan, add 2 cups water, 1 cup sugar, and sliced strawberries. Cook over medium-high heat until it reaches a boil.

Step 2: Simmer Mixture

Reduce heat and let simmer for 30 minutes until strawberries are soft and the liquid is deep red.

Step 3: Strain Mixture

Strain the strawberries using a mesh strainer into your pitcher. Gently press down on the strawberries but avoid squeezing too hard to keep chunks out of your tea.

Step 4: Steep Tea Bags

While your strawberry mixture cools in the pitcher, add 3 cups of boiling water to a large bowl. Place 3 family-sized tea bags in hot water and steep for 5 minutes. Remove tea bags afterward.

Step 5: Sweeten Tea

Add 1 cup of sugar to the steeped tea in the bowl and stir well to combine.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Pour the sweetened tea from the bowl into your pitcher with strawberry syrup.

Step 7: Add Cold Water

Add 8 cups of cold water to the pitcher and stir well to mix all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 8: Add Lemon Juice

Squeeze juice from 1 large lemon into your sweet tea mixture, mixing well again.

Step 9: Chill Before Serving

Cover your pitcher and refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours until very cold. Serve over ice with additional lemon slices and whole strawberries as garnish. Enjoy!

How to Serve Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea

Serving Southern strawberry sweet tea is all about presentation and pairing it with delightful treats. This refreshing drink not only quenches your thirst but also adds a vibrant touch to any gathering.

Refreshing Garnishes

Lemon Wedges: Add fresh lemon wedges for a zesty flavor boost and a pop of color.
Strawberry Slices: Place sliced strawberries in the glass for an elegant look and added sweetness.

Perfect Glassware

Mason Jars: Serve in mason jars to give a rustic feel, perfect for summer picnics.
Tall Glasses: Use tall glasses to showcase the beautiful red hue of the sweet tea.

Flavor Variations

Mint Leaves: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing herbal note.
Basil Sprigs: For an unexpected twist, use basil sprigs as a garnish, adding an aromatic element.

How to Perfect Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea

Perfecting your Southern strawberry sweet tea involves attention to detail and little tweaks that enhance flavor. Here are some tips to make your sweet tea stand out:

Bold Berries: Use ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor. They make your sweet tea taste fresh and naturally sweet.
Sugar Adjustments: Adjust the sugar based on your preference. Taste as you go to find your ideal sweetness level.
Chill Time: Let the sweet tea chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours—this helps meld the flavors together.
Quality Tea Bags: Opt for good-quality tea bags, like Lipton original, to ensure rich flavor in your brew.
Fresh Juice: Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled for a bright, tangy kick.
Ice Quality: Use clear ice cubes made from filtered water; it’s all about aesthetics!

Best Side Dishes for Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea

Pairing side dishes with Southern strawberry sweet tea can enhance your dining experience. These delicious options complement the refreshing flavors of the drink perfectly.

Pimento Cheese Dip: A creamy and tangy spread that goes wonderfully with crackers or vegetables.
Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs bring a savory note that balances the sweetness of the tea.
Fried Chicken Tenders: Crispy chicken tenders offer a crunchy contrast that’s hard to resist.
Caprese Salad Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing bite.
Watermelon Salad: A light salad with feta cheese and mint makes for a perfect summer side dish.
Cucumber Sandwiches: Lightly seasoned cucumber sandwiches provide a crisp, refreshing taste alongside sweet tea.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

Using Unripe Strawberries: Always select ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Unripe berries won’t provide the sweetness you need for a great tea.
Not Straining Properly: Failing to strain the strawberry mixture well can leave chunks in your tea. Use a fine mesh strainer and gently press to remove all liquid without crushing the berries too much.
Oversteeping Tea Bags: Leaving tea bags in too long can make your sweet tea bitter. Stick to the recommended 5 minutes to achieve the perfect flavor balance.
Skipping the Lemon Juice: The lemon juice adds a refreshing zing that enhances the drink. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for a balanced taste.
Not Cooling Enough Before Serving: Serving warm sweet tea can dilute flavors. Make sure to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours for a refreshing experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Container: Use an airtight pitcher or container to keep it fresh.
Separation: Stir before serving, as ingredients may settle over time.

Freezing Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea

Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for easy portioning.
Thawing: Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea

Oven: Heat in an oven-safe container at low heat until warmed through. This method is not commonly used but effective if needed.
Microwave: Warm in short intervals (30 seconds) until desired temperature is reached. Stir between intervals for even heating.
Stovetop: Gently heat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed. Avoid boiling to maintain flavor integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea special?

Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea combines juicy strawberries with classic sweet tea, creating a unique and refreshing drink perfect for hot days or gatherings.

Can I use other fruits in Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea?

Absolutely! You can substitute strawberries with peaches, raspberries, or even blueberries to create different flavors while keeping the same basic recipe.

How do I adjust sweetness in my Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea?

To adjust sweetness, simply add more sugar during preparation or use less if you prefer a less sweet beverage. Taste as you go!

Can I make Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea ahead of time?

Yes! This tea is perfect for making in advance. Just prepare it and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Is Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea suitable for kids?

Definitely! This refreshing drink is great for kids and family gatherings, making it a crowd-pleaser during summer events.

Final Thoughts

Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea is not just a delightful beverage; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various fruits or adjust its sweetness according to your taste preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of summer that everyone will love!

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