Last updated on July 8th, 2025
Green tea lemonade is the perfect summer drink a crisp, citrusy blend that’s as refreshing as it is revitalizing. Combining the earthy antioxidants of green tea with the zesty punch of lemonade, this vibrant beverage is a favorite for health-conscious sippers and Starbucks fans alike. Whether you’re looking to cool down on a hot day or recreate your favorite café drink at home, green tea lemonade delivers bold flavor and natural goodness in every sip.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll uncover everything about this flavorful fusion: its rising popularity, the health benefits of both green tea and lemonade, and how to craft the perfect glass using simple, wholesome ingredients. Inspired by the popular Matcha Green Tea Smoothie and designed for your kitchen, our step-by-step version lets you skip the coffee shop line without compromising on taste.
Looking for inspiration? Try Costa Rican Tea recipe that pair perfectly with your homemade green tea lemonade.
Ready to stir up something light, healthy, and totally satisfying? Let’s dive into the world of green tea lemonade your new go-to drink for sunny days.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What Is Green Tea Lemonade?
Origins and Popularity of Green Tea Lemonade
Green tea lemonade is a refreshing mix of brewed green tea and lemonade. Popularized by cafes like Starbucks, it quickly became a favorite for its light, zesty flavor and health perks. While lemonade has always been a summer classic and green tea a wellness staple, combining the two creates a drink that’s both energizing and hydrating.
Its rise in popularity is thanks to its versatility you can enjoy it iced, sweetened, or infused with fruit. It’s ideal for anyone looking for a low-calorie, antioxidant-rich refreshment.
Why This Drink Became a Summer Favorite
This drink is a warm-weather winner because it’s easy to make, naturally healthy, and tastes amazing. Green tea offers antioxidants and a mild energy lift, while lemonade adds vitamin C and bright citrus flavor. Together, they’re the perfect balance of cool and clean.
Looking for inspiration? Try breve coffee as a base for your next batch.
Print
Green Tea Lemonade
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 3 cups
Description
Green tea lemonade is the perfect summer drink a crisp, citrusy blend that’s as refreshing as it is revitalizing. Combining the earthy antioxidants of green tea with the zesty punch of lemonade, this vibrant beverage is a favorite for health-conscious sippers and Starbucks fans alike.
Ingredients
- 5 green tea bags
- 2 cups hot water
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 cups cold water
- 2 tablespoons simple syrup (or sugar, to taste)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Boil 2 cups of water and steep 5 green tea bags for 3–5 minutes. Remove tea bags and let the tea cool completely.
- In a separate jug, mix ¼ cup lemon juice, 2 cups cold water, and 2 tablespoons of simple syrup (or sugar).
- Combine the cooled green tea and lemonade mixture in a large pitcher and stir.
- Add ice and optional mint leaves to the pitcher or glasses.
- Serve chilled and enjoy immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Notes
Use decaffeinated green tea for a caffeine-free version. Adjust sweetness to taste or use natural sweeteners like stevia or honey.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Health Benefits of Green Tea Lemonade
Green Tea: Antioxidants, Energy & More
One of the biggest reasons people love green tea lemonade is because of the powerful benefits packed into green tea. It’s rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins like EGCG, which help fight inflammation and oxidative stress. Drinking green tea may also support better brain function, aid in fat burning, and provide a gentle energy boost without the crash of coffee.
Green tea contains L-theanine, a unique amino acid known for enhancing relaxed alertness and mental clarity. Combined with a touch of caffeine, it offers clean energy perfect for mid-day refreshment.
Lemonade: Vitamin C and Digestive Benefits
Fresh lemonade isn’t just about flavor it adds its own health perks. Lemons are packed with vitamin C, a powerful immune booster that supports skin health and helps the body absorb iron. The citric acid in lemon juice can also promote better digestion and help balance the body’s pH levels.
When you combine both ingredients, green tea lemonade becomes a drink that not only quenches thirst but also offers real health benefits. It hydrates, refreshes, and fuels your body all in one delicious glass.
Discover great ideas like Lemon Balm Tea Recipe for Weight Loss that works as a great alternative or sidekick to green tea lemonade.
Starbucks-Inspired Green Tea Lemonade at Home
What’s in Starbucks Green Tea Lemonade?
The popular Starbucks green tea lemonade is made with a blend of brewed green tea concentrate, lemonade, and ice. It’s lightly sweet and citrusy, but often contains added sugars and flavors.
How This Copycat Recipe Matches the Original
You can easily recreate the same refreshing flavor at home using:
- 1 part brewed green tea
- 1 part homemade lemonade
- Ice and mint (optional)
This version is fresher, lighter, and customizable without the extra sugar.
Don’t miss our Tropical Smoothie Detox Island Green for healthy alternatives to syrup.
Homemade Green Tea Lemonade Recipe
Ingredients Breakdown: Tea, Lemons, Syrup, and Water
Making green tea lemonade at home is easier than you think. It only takes a handful of fresh, wholesome ingredients to get started.
- Green tea bags – Use regular or decaf. Mint green tea also works well.
- Lemon juice – Fresh is ideal for the brightest flavor, though bottled can be a quick alternative when needed.
- Simple syrup or sugar – Adjust the sweetness to your taste.
- Cold water – Used for lemonade and cooling down the tea.
- Ice – Essential for serving chilled.
- Fresh mint (optional) – Adds a cool herbal note.
This basic recipe gives you the flexibility to make it sweet or tart, strong or mild—just the way you like it.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Brew
Follow this easy method to make a refreshing pitcher of green tea lemonade:
1. Brew the Tea
- Boil 2 cups of water.
- Steep 5 green tea bags for 3–5 minutes (check your package instructions).
- Remove tea bags without squeezing to avoid bitterness. Let cool.
2. Make the Lemonade
- In a separate jug, mix ¼ cup lemon juice, 2 cups cold water, and 2 tbsp simple syrup (or sugar).
- Stir well.
3. Combine & Chill
- In a large pitcher, combine the brewed tea and lemonade in equal parts.
- Add ice to chill and stir.
4. Serve It Up
- Pour into glasses over extra ice.
- Smack a few fresh mint leaves in your hands to release flavor and drop them in for garnish.
This recipe serves about 2–3 cups and can easily be doubled. Best of all, it stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Customizing Your Green Tea Lemonade
Sugar-Free, Decaf, and Herbal Options
What makes green tea lemonade so great is how effortlessly you can make it your own. Whether you’re cutting back on sugar, avoiding caffeine, or craving something herbal, there’s a version for you.
- No-Sugar Option: Swap the simple syrup for natural sweeteners like stevia, monk fruit, or a touch of agave for a guilt-free twist.
- Decaf Option: Choose decaffeinated green tea bags same taste, no jitters.
- Herbal Infusions: Try mint, chamomile, or even hibiscus tea for a floral twist.
With just a few easy adjustments, you can customize this drink to fit your diet and personal preferences perfectly.
Fruit-Infused Variations (Strawberry, Peach, Mint)
Want to take your green tea lemonade to the next level? Add fruit!
- Strawberry Green Tea Lemonade: Muddle fresh strawberries into the lemonade before mixing with tea.
- Peach Green Tea Lemonade: Use peach-flavored tea or add fresh peach slices.
- Mint Green Tea Lemonade: Add bruised mint leaves for a cooling herbal edge.
You can also toss in blueberries, raspberries, or even cucumber for added flavor and color. It’s a fun, creative way to refresh your summer drink routine.
Tips for Making the Best Green Tea Lemonade Every Time
Brewing Tips (Avoiding Bitterness, Ideal Steep Time)
Getting the perfect glass of green tea lemonade starts with how you brew your tea. Here’s how to do it right:
- Don’t over-steep: Brew green tea for 3 to 5 minutes max. Any longer and it becomes bitter.
- Use fresh, hot (not boiling) water: Aim for about 175–185°F to preserve the tea’s flavor.
- Never squeeze the tea bags: It releases tannins that cause bitterness.
- Let it cool completely before mixing with lemonade to avoid diluting the flavor with melted ice.
Even minor adjustments can make a big difference in elevating the flavor of your homemade beverage.
How to Sweeten Naturally & Store the Drink
If you want to keep your green tea lemonade healthier, try sweetening it naturally:
- Use honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar as alternatives to simple syrup.
- Blend in fruit like strawberries or peaches to add natural sweetness.
- Or go completely unsweetened green tea and lemon are flavorful enough on their own.
For storage:
- Keep your prepared green tea lemonade in the fridge in a sealed pitcher.
- It stays fresh for up to 4 days.
- Stir before serving, as separation is natural.
With the right brewing and storage methods, every glass of green tea lemonade you make can be crisp, flavorful, and just the way you like it.
Serving & Pairing Suggestions
Best Glassware, Garnishes, and Presentation
Presentation can elevate your green tea lemonade from simple to stunning. The right glass and garnish make it feel like a café-quality drink even at home.
- Serve in tall clear glasses or mason jars to showcase the drink’s vibrant color.
- Add plenty of ice for that crisp, refreshing effect.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves, lemon slices, or even a twist of lime for visual appeal.
- Want a touch of sparkle? Top with a splash of soda water for a fizzy version.
Use a pitcher with a spout to make pouring easier and keep the mint and fruit evenly distributed.
Pairing Ideas: What to Eat with Green Tea Lemonade
Green tea lemonade pairs beautifully with light, fresh meals. Try these ideas for the perfect match:
| Meal | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Grilled chicken salad | Lemon and green tea balance savory, smoky flavors |
| Veggie wraps or hummus | Refreshing contrast to creamy textures |
| Sushi or rice bowls | Complements clean, umami flavors |
| Light pasta dishes | Cuts through richness with citrus and tea notes |
| Summer fruit platters | Keeps things cool and balanced |
It’s also a great companion to brunch spreads or outdoor picnics, giving your meal a flavorful but healthy edge.
FAQs About Green Tea Lemonade
Is green tea and lemonade good?
Yes, absolutely. The combination of green tea and lemonade offers the best of both worlds antioxidants from the tea and vitamin C from the lemon. It’s a light, refreshing, and naturally energizing drink that’s great for hydration without being overly sweet or heavy.
What is in Starbucks green tea lemonade?
Starbucks’ green tea lemonade typically includes:
Brewed green tea concentrate (often with mint or lemongrass)
Lemonade base (lemon juice, water, and sweetener)
Ice
It’s served shaken for a smoother blend. While flavorful, it can be high in added sugars, which is why many prefer to make it fresh at home.
What is a green tea and lemonade drink called?
While it’s widely known as green tea lemonade, some cafés may label it differently such as “iced citrus green tea” or “mint green tea cooler.” Regardless of the name, the main ingredients green tea and lemonade remain consistent.
How to make green tea lemonade?
Making green tea lemonade at home is easy:
Brew green tea and let it cool.
Mix lemon juice, cold water, and sweetener to make lemonade.
Combine equal parts green tea and lemonade in a pitcher.
Serve over ice and garnish with mint or lemon slices.
It takes just a few ingredients and less than 10 minutes for a healthy, refreshing drink.
Related Recipes and Final Thoughts
Other Popular Summer Drinks to Try
If you love green tea lemonade, you’ll want to keep the refreshing vibes going with other creative, easy-to-make drinks. Here are some summer favorites that pair well with warm weather, healthy habits, and outdoor meals:
- Passion Iced Tea Lemonade – Fruity, floral, and caffeine-free
- Cucumber Mint Cooler – Ultra-hydrating and perfect for detox
- Strawberry Basil Sparkler – Bubbly and slightly sweet
- Iced Coffee with Instant Coffee – For a stronger, morning kick
- Citrus Ginger Fizz – Great for digestion and bold in flavor
Check out Seasonal and Holiday mocktails to stay cool and hydrated all season long.
Why Green Tea Lemonade Is the Drink You’ll Keep Coming Back To
From its refreshing taste to its health benefits, green tea lemonade offers the perfect balance of flavor and function. It hydrates, energizes, and satisfies all with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re making it as a daily detox, a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, or a sunny day treat, this drink always delivers.
With customizable options, minimal prep time, and ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, there’s no reason not to make it a regular part of your drink rotation.
Craving more kitchen moments and fresh recipe inspo?
Join me on Facebook and Pinterest I can’t wait to check out what you’re whipping up!