With record-high temps sweeping the country, staying cool and hydrated isn’t just a nice idea—it’s essential. When it’s too hot to even think about turning on the stove, a refreshing drink can make all the difference.
And if you’re looking for the ultimate summer sipper, Martha Stewart’s Red Iced Tea is a bold, jewel-toned showstopper that tastes as good as it looks. In a throwback video posted to the @marthastewart Instagram page, Martha says, “You’ll always find, in my refrigerator, a delicious red tea. And everyone always asks, ‘What is it?'”
Whether you’re looking for a drink for your next backyard barbecue, lounging on the porch or just need a midday pick-me-up, this tart, fruity iced tea will help you stay cool, hydrated and refreshed all summer long.
Here’s why this iced tea is a staple at Martha’s house—and why it might become a go-to at your house, too.
Related: The Best Way to Sweeten Iced Tea, According to Ina Garten
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What Makes Martha’s Red Iced Tea So Special?
This isn’t your average iced tea. What sets it apart is its vibrant Red Zinger base, a blend of hibiscus, rosehips, peppermint, lemongrass and orange peel that has a complex and citrusy flavor. Martha takes it a step further by adding an equal amount of Red Raspberry tea bags, plus orange and lemon slices to enhance the tea’s natural fruit flavor, along with a sprig of fresh mint for an extra-refreshing touch.
The finished tea is fresh and fruity, bright and full of berry flavor and its striking red color will have your guests talking. It’s delicious served as-is or you can turn it into a summer cocktail by adding a splash of vodka or bourbon.
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Why is Red Zinger Tea So Red?
The secret to the tea’s signature color and zingy flavor? Celestial Seasonings Red Zinger Tea. Martha says it’s one of her longtime favorite drinks because of its “refreshingly citrusy and so invigorating” taste. Red Zinger, which you can find at many grocery stores, is made from a blend of red hibiscus, peppermint and cherry bark. When steeped, this tea blend is a rich ruby red color with a tart, cranberry-like flavor.
Related: The Simple Way to Make the Best-Ever Iced Tea, According to a Tea Sommelier
How to Make Martha Stewart’s Red Iced Tea
You can find the full recipe for Martha’s red iced tea on the Today Show website, but here are the broad strokes for making this refreshing drink. Boil water, add 4 Red Zinger tea bags and 4 Red Raspberry tea bags and steep the tea for 4–6 minutes. Discard the bags and stir in cold water. Chill the tea for at least 1 hour. To serve, fill a pitcher with ice, add thin slices of orange and lemon, pour in the tea and garnish with fresh mint.
Related: The Genius Iced Tea Trick Fans Call ‘The Best Idea’
Martha Stewart’s Tips for Making the Best-Ever Iced Tea
- Use fresh, filtered water to ensure a clean, crisp taste.
- Add extra flavor and flair by freezing herbs or fruit into ice cubes—they’ll look beautiful and slowly flavor the tea as the ice melts.
- Sweeten to your liking with honey or simple syrup, and consider tossing in a handful of summer berries for a juicy twist.
Vibrant, flavorful and effortlessly elegant—Martha Stewart’s red iced tea is the summer drink that delivers every time.
Related: How to Make Sangria 10x Better, According to Ina Garten
