Tea at the Unicorn Wine Guild

Tea-related education and events, the enjoyment of the beverage and the culture of tea

Apr 27

Company’s Coming – Quick Summer Recipes For Serving Great Tea (Or a warm spring day)

by teaattheunicornwineguildllc

It seems like “fast” never quite seems “fast enough” when guests show up on your doorstep.  Summer and friends go hand in hand and when it comes to summer drink recipes, any tea lover will tell you that nothing ever seems to go as quickly as we want or expect. (like the time you tried to make iced tea in a hurry and ended up with a watered down mess.)  Well, let me do my part to help you speed things up with two summer tea recipes that help you serve your guests as fast as possible (especially if you’re strapped for time).

Recipes #1: Smoothies Work Well if Serving 2-4 Guests

Tea smoothies are loved by all ages and combine cool refreshing ingredients with speed.  I suggest keeping a few ingredients in the freezer to make this process even easier.

1 Cup Greek Yogurt (Vanilla or Plain)
1 Cup Iced Tea
1 Cup Frozen Fruit – Your Choice (must be frozen in order for this recipe to work!)

This is a great mix and match basic recipe.  Toss in stevia or honey and sweeten to taste.  Blend to the consistency that says “summer” and serve with a fresh wedge of fruit on the glass.  This recipe serves 2-3 people and takes only moments to prepare.

Recipes #2: Punches Work Well For Group Gatherings

This recipes is critical to your success if you are planning a reunion or bbq gathering.  Grab a big punch bowl or glass beverage dispenser and create this simple cool drink.

Toss in a pitcher of strong iced tea (sweetened works best) and mix with one bottle of citrus based soda.  Add some fresh lemons and limes and a cup or two of orange juice to taste (can be a frozen concentrate.)  This quick and easy punch offers refreshment for a crowd in a hurry.

Both of these recipes put some entertainment power in every tea lover’s corner. But don’t forget, there’s a lot more simple ways to use tea this summer, so don’t let this article be the end of your journey. Instead, let it be the beginning of your quest for more knowledge.

By the way, our shop offers a fantastic collection of teas perfect for summer entertaining.  Visit us online at : http://www.Unicornwineguild.com or in person at our shop in Belpre, Ohio.

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Jul 7

Summer Tea Parties

by teaattheunicornwineguildllc

As we come full into the summer season and the flowers come to full bloom, a lovely garden party comes to mind.  Your guest list can be as large or intimate as you like, depending upon the seating you have available.  Yes, blankets on the lawn are an option.  However, you need to consider your guests.  Getting up and down from the ground may not be graceful or comfortable for some, especially those who are older.  Be sure that the lawn furniture is clean and that the yard is mowed.

Perhaps you think of a lovely tea party with tea dresses, big hats and soft music on the patio or maybe your idea of great party is more casual, around the pool, bright colors, upbeat music and a gaudy hat.  Whatever your style, please be sure to convey the message clearly in the invitation.

You will want to have your party at a time of the day that’s cool enough for people to enjoy the outdoors, either in an outdoor setting or with wide windows where the outdoors can be enjoyed.  It is probably wise to consider having alternate plans in case of inclimate weather if the party is to be outside.  If you do wait for evening and it is an outside event, be sure to plan for bugs with either citronella candles or other bug removal equipment.  Be sure there is adequate lighting as the evening progresses both for safety and so that people can see each other.

On a summer day, iced tea will probably be more appreciated than hot tea, especially if served outdoors.  As for food, keep it light and summery.  Avoid creamy dressings, cheese and other foods that will melt or curdle.  Yes, ice cream is an option, but be sure it is kept frozen until time to serve.  Pay attention to food safety.

You can brighten the event by using a tropical theme or bright colors both in the decorations and the tableware.  Many such items can be found inexpensively now.  If you opt to have an indoor party, you can still use the tropical theme and/or decorate with summer flowers.  Perhaps you would opt to float one bright rose in a small water dish, or decorate the table with hydrangeas. 

Take the time to envision your party, the decorations and the menu.  By keeping it simple, you will have more time to enjoy the party yourself.  Have a great July!

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