Simple Basil Tea Recipe (Iced or Hot)

Learn to make this simple basil tea recipe and enjoy it hot or iced. Add honey and fresh-squeezed lemon juice for a refreshing summer treat.

4.33 from 85 votes

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Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Basil Tea, Basil Tea Recipe, Holy Basil Tea

Prep Time: 5

Steep Time: 20

Total Time: 25

Servings: Servings

Calories: 197kcal

Harvest basil leaves (about 2 cups, packed) and place in a half-gallon Mason jar.
Boil 6-7 cups of water.
Pour boiling water over basil leaves and let steep for 20-30 minutes (the longer you let it steep the stronger the flavor).
Strain basil leaves out of the tea.
While the tea is still warm, add honey and stir well to combine.
Add lemon juice, taste, and add more honey or lemon as needed.
Store in the refrigerator for one to two weeks and enjoy over ice.

Stir honey in while the tea is still slightly warm or at room temperature. If you wait until the tea is cold, it won't mix in well.
If you can find a local source for honey, sometimes they'll sell it by the five-gallon bucket and you'll save a lot of money over buying it by the quart jar at the grocery store or Farmer's Market.