During the hot summer months there is nothing more refreshing than iced tea.  But we really could do without the caffeine.  And when entertaining, what is more special on a summer evening than a colorful pitcher of Sangria?  But we could really do without the alcohol.  I found a wonderful recipe from our friends at Organic India for the perfect summer beverage – cool, fruity, and absolutely delicious – with the added health benefits of Tulsi, the Queen of herbs!  Here’s the recipe!

 

-Put 10 tea bags of either Tulsi Raspberry Peach, Tulsi Red Mango, or Tulsi Passionfruit in a pot.  Pour 16 ounces of boiling water over the bags.

-Steep 20-30 minutes, or allow to cool to room temperature.

-While tea is steeping, chop 1 small apple, 1 small peeled orange, and ½ or a lemon into bite sized pieces, or into circles, and add to tea.

-Add a handful of any or all of the following fruits: grapes, raspberries, strawberries or blueberries.

-Once tea is cooled, remove the tea bags and discard, but leave in the fruit mixture.

-Pour into a pitcher.

 

I like to rim wine glasses with sugar and garnish with a piece of fresh fruit.  Serve the sangria over ice, and enjoy!