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basil lemon iced tea

Basil Lemon Iced Tea

Elegant, herbaceous iced black tea infused with fresh basil and bright lemon aroma. Lightly sweetened with honey, clean and refreshing — a botanical summer drink built on restraint and balance.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Drinks
Calories: 35
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

BLACK TEA BASE
  • 1.65 L water
  • 5 item black tea bags Ceylon or light breakfast tea
BOTANICAL FLAVORING
  • 25–30 g fresh basil leaves packed cup
  • 2–3 tbsp mild honey to taste
  • 1 strip lemon peel yellow part only; no white pith
  • 1-2 tbsp fresh lemon juice for light acidity
TO SERVE
  • item ice
  • item fresh basil leaves
  • item lemon slices

Method
 

  1. Heat the water to 90–95°C (195–203°F). Add the black tea bags and steep for 2½–3 minutes maximum. Remove the tea bags without squeezing and let the tea cool to lukewarm.
  2. While the tea is still warm, stir in 2 tablespoons of honey until fully dissolved. Taste and add up to 1 additional tablespoon only if needed. Let the tea cool to room temperature.
  3. Rinse the basil leaves and gently clap them between your hands to release aroma. Do not chop or muddle — bruising releases bitterness and chlorophyll.
  4. Add the basil leaves to the cooled tea. Refrigerate and let infuse for 10–15 minutes only, just until a fresh herbal aroma develops. Remove the basil promptly to prevent vegetal flavors.
  5. Add the strip of lemon peel and let infuse for 5 minutes, then remove. Stir in 1 tablespoon lemon juice for gentle brightness, adding up to 1 additional tablespoon only if needed.
  6. Continue chilling the tea for 1–2 hours until fully cold and balanced.
  7. Fill glasses with ice, pour over the chilled basil lemon iced tea, and garnish with fresh basil leaves and lemon slices.

Notes

  • Basil should be aromatic and green, never cooked or long-infused.
  • Lemon here is fragrant first, acidic second — the peel does most of the work.
  • Use mild honey so the herbal profile stays clean and focused.
  • Best enjoyed within 24 hours for peak aroma and clarity.