Black Pepper Free Strawberry Basil Iced Tea
This is the kind of drink that makes a summer afternoon feel like a real occasion. Fresh strawberries are simmered down with maple syrup until they release a gorgeous deep-pink juice, then fragrant basil leaves are steeped right into the warm syrup — the result is floral, fruity, and just sweet enough without being cloying. Brewed black tea ties everything together with a gentle earthiness that balances the brightness of the berries beautifully. For anyone avoiding pepper, this recipe is naturally a safe haven — there's nothing hidden in the ingredient list, no spice blends, no seasoning shortcuts, just clean, whole ingredients you can trust. The syrup strains out silky smooth, so every glass is clear, vibrant, and ready to impress. Pile on the ice, add a sprig of basil and a few strawberry slices if you're feeling fancy, and you've got a pitcher drink that looks like it came from a café but came entirely from your own kitchen.
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!