Labor Day is fast approaching signifying the official end of summer vacation. Whoever deemed the summer months as a “vacation” sure was using the term loosely. Down here in the south last ditch efforts for summer fun are in play. This means BBQ’s on every corner, water sports, and the typical consumption and enjoyment of spirits.

If you’re like me sipping on a Labor Day cocktail simply isn’t in the cards. Maybe you are avoiding the empty calories for weight loss, maybe you have nixed the alcohol for personal reasons, or maybe you have a herd of rowdy children to keep up with.  Remind me again, when do they go back to school?  Does this mean nondrinkers are stuck with sugary sodas or the ever so exciting bottles of water? Not anymore! Today I will share with you a trio of fully flavored, lightly sweetened iced teas sure to keep your mouth happy and your mind fully functioning!

The inspiration for these herb infused teas came to me one evening after a long hard workout at the local track. It was 90 degrees out and needing to quench my thirst I pulled into a drive through for my usual post workout un-sweet tea. Eyeing, and drooling, over the flavored beverage menu I said to my husband “I wish I could get flavored iced tea without all that sugary syrup”. I’ve always disliked those flavored syrups. In order to get more fruit flavor you are forced to continue adding the sugar as well. I then had my light bulb moment. Why not infuse tea directly with the fresh flavors of Litehouse’s Instantly Fresh Herbs, and then use my favorite sweeteners, if any, at my discretion.

I can savor the sweet fruits summer has to offer with Basil Peach Infused Green Tea. I can escape (only in my head of course) on an Asian get-a-way while sipping on a Creamy Lemongrass Infused Black Tea. I can keep it spicy and tropical with Jalapeno Pineapple Infused White Tea. With many Instantly Fresh Herbs available in the produce section of my grocery store the flavor possibilities are endless. I can pick my poison while keeping my sugar intake to a minimum.

Infused teas are also a great option for children. The amounts of caffeine found in teas are certainly safer for consumption than the chemicals, caffeine, and sugars found in sodas and fruit flavored juices. An extra squeeze of honey or agave nectar in a kid’s tea will have them coming back for seconds. Letting your child add his or her favorite fruit to infuse the tea with will encourage a love for the healthier beverage.

Pick your favorite flavors and be sure to bring an extra-large pitcher of Herb Infused Tea to your Labor Day Bash or maybe a stick for fighting off the crowds if you’re not the sharing type. There will surely be others wanting to partake in tea time.