Artificial Food Coloring Free Strawberry Basil Iced Tea
That deep pink color you see in the glass? It comes entirely from a pound of fresh strawberries simmered down into a rich, jewel-toned syrup — no dyes, no artificial anything. So many bottled and powdered iced teas get their vibrant hues from synthetic colorings, which can be a real concern if you're trying to keep your drinks clean and simple. This one earns every bit of its gorgeous color the honest way. Maple syrup steps in as the sweetener, adding a subtle warmth that pairs beautifully with the floral, peppery notes of fresh basil steeped right into the syrup. The result is a drink that tastes layered and a little fancy without requiring much effort at all. Serve it over a big glass of ice with a sprig of basil and a few strawberry slices on the rim, and it looks like something from a café menu. It's the kind of refreshing summer drink that makes you wonder why you ever reached for a store-bought bottle in the first place.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the tea
- 4 cups water
- 4 black tea bags
For the strawberry basil syrup
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- ½ cup maple syrup
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
To finish
- 2 cups cold water
For serving
- ice, for serving
- fresh basil sprigs, for garnish (optional)
- sliced strawberries, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Remove from the heat, add the tea bags, and steep for 5 minutes. Remove and discard the tea bags, then set the brewed tea aside to cool slightly.
- 2
While the tea steeps, combine the halved strawberries, maple syrup, and 1/2 cup water in the same saucepan (or a second small saucepan) over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries have softened and released their juices and the liquid is a deep pink, about 8 minutes.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!