The Summer Solstice has come and gone and temperatures are steadily rising here is Southern California in preparation for the seemingly endless days of summer. It's been such a joy to get out and hike the local trails, lay out by the pool, and do a bit of morning yoga and meditation out in the backyard. The theme these days is getting outside and enjoying the sunshine.

But you know what else I enjoy when the weather is hot? Freshly brewed ice-cold teas using some of my favorite herbs and ripened seasonal fruit. This quintessential drink of summer keeps my thirst quenched, but most of all, iced tea keeps me cool and comfortable all summer long.

3 Delicious Iced Tea Recipes for Summer

You can't go wrong with a good iced tea. What's even better is they're a snap to make ahead of time, toss in the fridge, and enjoy for several days afterward. They're also easy to make for summer parties or long days at the beach. Iced tea is basically perfect in every way!

Here are a few of my favorite iced tea recipes for summer:

1. Green or Black Tea with Fresh Squeezed Lemon

This iced tea is super basic but delicious! But honestly, who doesn't like a good iced green or black tea? It's a true crowd pleaser, it quenches your thirst and cools you down, AND it's probably one of the easiest ice teas to throw together in a hurry as there really isn't a recipe for this one.

All you need is your favorite green or black tea (I really enjoy Mighty Leaf Green Tea Tropical and Mighty Leaf Orange Blossom for a bit more flavor variation) and a good squeeze of fresh lemon.

Make the tea according to instructions on the package (otherwise steep 2TB of loose leaf green or black tea in 1 quart of boiling water, then dilute with another quart of water once steeped).

Next add the fresh lemon and Voila!

Perfect simple iced tea.

2. Hibiscus Cooler

This tea has an incredible deep ruby color and tastes tart yet sweet and fruity. It sort of reminds me of a sangria in the sense that you add freshly sliced fruits to the finished tea.

Here's what you need to make it:

• 2TB hibiscus flowers or your favorite hibiscus tea
• 1 peeled and sliced orange
• 1 peeled and sliced lemon
• 1 peeled and sliced lime
• 1 apple cut into half-moon slices
• ½ pint of sliced strawberries
• 1 quart of boiling water
• 1 quart cold water
• A large pitcher (make sure it's heat safe)
• Plenty of ice

How to:

In a heat safe pitcher, add the hibiscus tea and pour over the boiling water. Steep for 5 minutes, making sure to squeeze out any excess liquid as you remove the tea bag/strainer.

Next, pour in 1 quart of cold filtered water and then add the prepared fruit. Stir well and add ice if desired.

Removing the peels from the citrus will keep your tea from developing a bitter flavor.

This tea is so amazing when all the ingredients meld together overnight. In fact, it's even better if you bruise the fruit a bit before adding it to the tea.

3. Pineapple Coconut Black Tea

This tea is super hydrating as it's rich with electrolyte infused coconut water and fresh juicy pineapple pieces. It's the perfect poolside iced tea!

Here's what you need to make it:

• 2 TB black tea of choice
• ½ a pineapple cut into small chunks (use more pineapple if desired)
• 1 quart boiling water
• 1 quart cold coconut water
• A large heat safe pitcher
• Plenty of ice

How to:

Steep the black tea in 1 quart of boiling water for 5 minutes and let it cool completely.

Once cool, add the coconut water (either use fresh or your favorite brand - I like Nirvana) and mix thoroughly.

Bruise the pineapple chunks and stir them in. Adding some fresh lime is also delicious!

Chill completely before serving. Feel free to add ice or other tasty fruits!

So, there you have it! Delicious, hydrating, and beautiful iced tea recipes for summer! What have been your favorites? Please share in the comments below!

You may also enjoy reading:

Peach Leaf Tea Recipe
It's Getting Hot! Time for Some Citrus Herbal Lemon Water
The Top 10 Benefits of Drinking Lemon Water
Summer Heat Relief- Cooling Herbs