Olive Garden Mango Strawberry Tea

There’s something so refreshing about a tall glass of fruit-infused iced tea, especially when it brings together the juicy sweetness of strawberries and the tropical brightness of mango. Olive Garden’s Mango Strawberry Tea has become a favorite for many, and now you can recreate that same magic in your own kitchen. Imagine sipping this golden, jewel-toned drink, chilled with ice, while the flavors of ripe fruit dance across your palate—it’s pure sunshine in a glass.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe carries the charm of summer afternoons and restaurant-inspired indulgence. I remember the first time I tried it at Olive Garden, the tea was so perfectly balanced that I couldn’t help but order a second. Bringing it home means you don’t need to wait for a dinner out to enjoy the same refreshing sip. It’s nostalgia in liquid form, a reminder of conversations over shared breadsticks and laughter around the table.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Fruit-flavored teas have long been loved across cultures. In the Southern United States, sweet tea is a staple, often infused with seasonal fruits like peaches and berries. Mangoes, native to South Asia, add a tropical twist to the mix, while strawberries, beloved in European desserts, bring a familiar tart-sweetness. When these two fruits meet in iced tea, it becomes a cultural fusion in a glass—bridging regions and traditions with each sip.

Why You’ll Love Olive Garden Mango Strawberry Tea

This drink isn’t just delicious, it’s versatile and practical for all kinds of occasions.

Versatile: Serve it at brunch, take it to a picnic, or make it your everyday refreshing sip.

Budget-Friendly: Using simple ingredients like black tea and fresh fruit keeps this recipe affordable.

Quick and Easy: In under 20 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality iced tea ready.

Customizable: Sweeten it to taste, add sparkling water, or even switch the tea base.

Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves a fruity iced tea, from kids to adults.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Brew and chill in advance for effortless entertaining.

Great for Leftovers: Store it in the fridge and enjoy for a couple of days without losing flavor.

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Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

The beauty of this tea lies in its balance, so here are a few insider secrets to help you nail it every time:

1. Use ripe mangoes for the sweetest natural flavor.
2. Brew tea strong, since the ice will dilute it slightly.
3. Muddle strawberries lightly so their flavor infuses without making the tea cloudy.
4. Sweeten with simple syrup instead of granulated sugar for even distribution.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before we dive in, let’s gather the essentials:

Tea Kettle or Pot: For brewing the tea base.
Pitcher: To mix and chill the drink.
Muddler or Spoon: For releasing juice from strawberries.
Strainer: To keep the tea smooth and free of fruit pulp.
Glasses: Tall and clear to showcase the vibrant colors.

Ingredients in Olive Garden Mango Strawberry Tea

The harmony of mango, strawberry, and tea creates a refreshing medley. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Black Tea Bags: 4 bags – the foundation of the drink, bold and smooth.
2. Water: 4 cups – for brewing the tea.
3. Fresh Mango: 1 cup diced – adds tropical sweetness.
4. Fresh Strawberries: 1 cup sliced – brings tart, juicy flavor.
5. Simple Syrup: ½ cup – balances the fruit and tea with gentle sweetness.
6. Ice Cubes: 2 cups – chills the drink perfectly.
7. Lemon Wedges (optional): For a bright citrus note.

Ingredient Substitutions

Sometimes you may need to swap things around, and that’s perfectly fine.

Black Tea: Green tea or white tea for a lighter taste.
Fresh Mango: Frozen mango chunks work well.
Fresh Strawberries: Use frozen berries if fresh ones aren’t in season.
Simple Syrup: Honey or agave syrup as a natural sweetener.

Ingredient Spotlight

Mango: Known as the king of fruits, mango offers a luscious, velvety sweetness that elevates any drink.

Strawberries: Bursting with bright flavor, they not only add taste but also a gorgeous pink hue.

Instructions for Making Olive Garden Mango Strawberry Tea

Now let’s put it all together in a way that’s both fun and foolproof:

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Boil 4 cups of water in a kettle or pot.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add black tea bags to the hot water and steep for 5 minutes, then remove.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: In a pitcher, place sliced strawberries and diced mango. Muddle gently to release juices.
4. Assemble the Dish: Pour brewed tea into the pitcher over the fruit.
5. Cook to Perfection: Stir in simple syrup while the tea is still warm so it blends smoothly.
6. Finishing Touches: Add ice cubes and stir until chilled.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Pour into tall glasses, garnish with lemon wedges if desired, and sip away.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The charm of this drink lies in contrast. The bold, earthy depth of black tea meets the lush sweetness of mango and the lively tartness of strawberries. The icy chill amplifies the refreshing sensation, while a hint of lemon brightens the entire profile. Every sip delivers layers—smooth, fruity, crisp, and revitalizing.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Here are a few extra nuggets of wisdom:

• Use filtered water for the cleanest tea flavor.
• Chill the tea completely before serving for maximum refreshment.
• Double the batch if entertaining guests—it disappears quickly.

What to Avoid

Even simple recipes can trip us up, so here’s what to steer clear of:

• Brewing tea too long, which can make it bitter.
• Over-muddling strawberries, which clouds the tea.
• Adding sugar granules directly, which won’t dissolve evenly.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 110

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This tea is wonderfully forgiving when it comes to planning ahead. You can brew the tea and slice the fruit the night before, then assemble everything a few hours before serving. Store leftovers in a covered pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you’d like to freeze, make fruit ice cubes by freezing diced mango and strawberries in water—then drop them into your tea later for a fun twist.

How to Serve Olive Garden Mango Strawberry Tea

This drink shines in a tall glass with lots of ice, garnished with extra slices of strawberry or mango. Pair it with light summer meals like grilled chicken, salads, or even brunch spreads with pastries and fruit. It also makes a perfect non-alcoholic option at parties, giving guests something special to sip.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Don’t let leftovers go to waste—get creative instead:

• Blend into a smoothie base with yogurt and bananas.
• Freeze into fruity ice pops.
• Use as a mixer with sparkling water for a fizzy refreshment.

Additional Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try infusing the simple syrup with mint or basil. It adds a fresh herbal note that pairs beautifully with the fruit. Also, consider chilling your glasses in the freezer before serving to keep the tea frosty longer.

Make It a Showstopper

Presentation can elevate even the simplest drinks. Serve in mason jars for a rustic look or in stemmed glasses for elegance. Garnish with a skewer of fresh fruit, or rim the glasses with sugar for added sparkle. A colorful paper straw adds a playful touch.

Variations to Try

• Add peach slices for a mango-strawberry-peach trio.
• Use sparkling water instead of still water for a fizzy twist.
• Brew with green tea for a lighter, grassy flavor.
• Add a splash of coconut water for tropical depth.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make this tea unsweetened?

Yes, simply skip the simple syrup or reduce it to your taste.

Q2: Can I use bottled mango juice instead of fresh fruit?

You can, but fresh mango gives a brighter and more natural flavor.

Q3: How long does it stay fresh in the fridge?

About 2 days when covered and stored properly.

Q4: Can I use herbal tea instead of black tea?

Yes, but keep in mind it will change the flavor profile completely.

Q5: What’s the best sweetener if I want to avoid sugar?

Stevia or monk fruit sweetener are great options.

Q6: Can I serve this warm?

While it’s designed as an iced tea, you can enjoy it warm if you like.

Q7: Should I strain out the fruit before serving?

It depends on preference—leaving the fruit in makes it prettier and more flavorful.

Q8: Can I make it in large batches for parties?

Absolutely, just scale up the ingredients and keep it chilled.

Q9: What type of tea is closest to Olive Garden’s version?

They typically use a standard black tea, but any strong black tea works.

Q10: Can I freeze the tea itself?

It’s best to freeze fruit ice cubes and then add them to fresh tea instead.

Conclusion

Recreating Olive Garden’s Mango Strawberry Tea at home means you’re just a few simple steps away from a restaurant-quality refreshment anytime you like. With its vibrant fruitiness, cooling tea base, and customizable sweetness, this drink is bound to become a go-to in your kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again—it’s that good.