Orange Mint Tea

This easy orange mint tea recipe actually contains no tea.  The mint is steeped, as tea leaves would be, to make a refreshing, cool drink.  It can be made with honey instead of sugar and is best served cold.  Take advantage of fresh spring mint!

Ingredients:

3 cups water

6 sprigs well-rinsed fresh mint (each about 6 inches)

1/3 cup sugar or to taste OR 1/4 cup honey

2 cups fresh orange juice

1/2 cup fresh lemon juice

Cold water

Ice cubes

Fresh mint for garnish

Slice of orange or lemon for garnish

Preparation:

In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups water to a boil.  Add mint, cover, remove from heat and steep 15 minutes or longer.  Remove mint.  Add and stir until dissolved 1/3 cup sugar (or honey).  This concentrate may be cooled and frozen if you like.

Combine orange and lemon juices in a 2-quart pitcher.  Add mint concentrate and enough water and ice to fill the pitcher to the top.  Chill completely and serve with garnishes.

(a little vodka wouldn't hurt either)