Turkey Free Strawberry Basil Iced Tea
This is the kind of drink that makes a hot afternoon feel like a special occasion. Fresh strawberries are simmered down with maple syrup until they release a gorgeous, jewel-toned juice, then steeped with a generous handful of basil for a syrup that's floral, fruity, and just a little unexpected. That syrup gets strained and stirred into brewed black tea for a pitcher drink that's refreshing without being overly sweet. The whole thing is completely plant-based and free from any meat-derived ingredients — no hidden broths, no animal-based additives, just clean, simple pantry staples. It's a great make-ahead option since it needs time to chill, meaning you can prep it in advance and have something genuinely impressive waiting in the fridge. Poured over ice and topped with a sprig of basil and a few strawberry slices, it looks like something from a café menu but comes together with minimal effort at home.
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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.
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