Sparkling Strawberry Tea

10oz. pkg. frozen strawberries in syrup, thawed
6 C. water
3 family-size tea bags
1/2 C. sugar
6oz. can frozen limeade concentrate, thawed
fresh mint sprigs, optional
2 liters sparkling water, chilled
strawberries cut in half to just below stem for garnish, optional

In a blender or food processor, process thawed strawberries until smooth & set aside. In a medium-size saucepan, bring the water to a gentle boil . Add tea bags, cover & remove from heat. Let steep 10 min. Remove tea bags without squeezing them. Stir in sugar until dissolved. Stir in limeade & strawberry puree. Pour tea into 2 qt. container & add mint sprigs if desired. Let cool. Remove mint, then chill. When ready to serve, pour tea mixture into a serving pitcher or punch bowl large enough to hold the tea plus sparkling water. Slowly add sparkling water. Serve over ice. If desired, garnish each glass with a sliced strawberry (or add sliced strawberries to punch bowl).

Helpful Tip: I encourage you to use fresh strawberries. Simply slice them, add 1/2 C. sugar & refrigerate 1 hr., stirring occasionally. This recipe makes about 1 gallon.