Spice Free Lemon-Basil Mint Green Tea
Fresh herbs, bright citrus, and delicate green tea come together in a drink that feels genuinely refreshing without relying on a single spice. For anyone navigating a spice-free lifestyle, finding a flavored beverage that isn't secretly loaded with cinnamon, cardamom, or other warming spices can be surprisingly tricky — this one keeps things clean and naturally aromatic instead. The flavor comes entirely from steeped mint and basil leaves, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of raw honey, so every sip is bright and herbal rather than sharp or irritating. Steeping the tea at 175°F rather than a full boil is a small but important step that keeps the green tea smooth and golden instead of bitter. Once strained and chilled, it's the kind of pitcher drink you'll want to keep in the fridge all week. Serve it over ice with a few lemon slices and it looks just as good as it tastes.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 4 cups water
- 4 green tea bags
- ½ cup fresh mint leaves, loosely packed
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
- 3 tbsp raw honey
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1–2 lemons)
For serving
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (optional)
- ice, for serving
Instructions
- 1
Bring 4 cups of water to 175°F (80°C) in a small saucepan — just below a simmer, with small bubbles beginning to form at the bottom. Remove from heat.
- 2
Add the green tea bags, mint leaves, and basil leaves to the hot water. Steep for 4–5 minutes, until the tea is a clear golden-green and the herbs are fragrant. Do not steep longer, as the tea can turn bitter.
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