As the days get longer and temperatures start to climb, this Saffron Radiance Sparkling Iced Tea is our new go-to for spring and summer. The blend of hibiscus, rose petal, chamomile, and cardamom creates a naturally sweet, aromatic base that pairs beautifully with sparkling water — resulting in a drink that's floral, lightly fizzy, and a stunning deep pink, with no fancy syrups or mixers needed. It's completely caffeine-free, comes together in minutes, and looks far more impressive than the effort it takes to make.
Servings: 2
INGREDIENTS
• 2 Tahmina Saffron Radiance tea sachets
• 1 cups boiling water (212°F)
• 1.5 cups cold sparkling water
• 1 tablespoons honey or agave (optional, to taste)
• 1 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 cups ice
• 1 handful fresh rose petals or lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
STEPS
1. Steep the tea: Place 2 Tahmina Saffron Radiance tea sachets in a heatproof pitcher or mug. Pour 1 cups boiling water (212°F) over the sachets and steep for 5–6 minutes for a full-bodied concentrate. Each sachet can be steeped up to three times, so set them aside if you'd like another batch.
2. Sweeten & add citrus: Remove the sachets. While the tea is still warm, stir in 1 tablespoons honey or agave (optional, to taste) until dissolved. Add 1 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and stir to combine.
3. Chill: Let the tea concentrate cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until cold — about 30 minutes. For a shortcut, pour it over a cup of ice to cool it quickly.
4. Build the drink: Fill two tall glasses with 2 cups ice. Pour the chilled tea concentrate halfway up each glass, then slowly top with 1.5 cups cold sparkling water — the carbonation will bloom beautifully against the deep pink of the hibiscus.
5. Garnish & serve: Garnish with rose petals or a lemon slice if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
*Tips & variations:
- Make it a mocktail: Add a splash of pomegranate juice or a few muddled raspberries for extra depth.
- Sweetness: The licorice root in Saffron Radiance gives a natural sweetness — taste before adding honey. You may not need it at all!
- Make a big batch: Scale up the concentrate and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Top with sparkling water to order.
- Alcohol version: A splash of prosecco in place of sparkling water makes a stunning saffron spritz for entertaining.
Shop Saffron Radiance here to make this recipe at home.
