I know I am not alone feeling a little tired, slow and heavy these days. The August heat and humidity is taking its toll on us and it is difficult to keep up with our daily routines. Walking my dogs in the mornings is a little less enjoyable than usual and running those errands in a  car that feels more like a toaster oven leaves me exhausted.

On those dog days of summer it is extra important to stay hydrated and how better to do this than with a cup of tea. Research has shown that drinking tea is just as hydrating as drinking water – but much tastier! 

If you want to bring a little “varie-tea” into your iced tea selection, I recommend this delicious Melon Punch with Green Tea.  You get your hydration, anti-oxidants and a refreshing break all in one glass! 

Ingredients:                           10g of green tea

                                           1  lime

                                           1 bottle white grape juice (30 fl. oz)

                                           2 honey dew melons, honey

                                            1 bottle pellegrino or seltzer (29 fl. oz)

Bring 20 oz of water to a boil, remove from burner and let cool for 1 minute. Add the green tea and steep for 3 minutes. Strain the tea, then take the lime, wash it and squeeze the juice into the tea. Cover and let cool.

 Once the tea is cool, add the grape juice and add honey to taste. Cut the melon in small cubes  and add those punch. For the finishing touch, add a bottle of Pellegrino and ice – or if you want to really kick it up a notch and make this a drink at your next party, replace the Pellegrino with a bottle of champagne!

For garnish, you can add thin slices of lime.

One sip will let you forget this sticky summer heat – at least for a little while…..I promise!

Cheers!