TEA INGREDIENTS:

1. 4-6 leaves of fresh basil, torn
2. 2 black tea bags (or 1 tablespoon loose-leaf black tea)
3. 3 cups of cold, filtered water

FOR SERVING:

1. Simple syrup or your preferred liquid sweetener, to taste
2. Sliced lemon or strawberries
3. Fresh basil sprigs
4. Ice cubes

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Add the fresh, torn basil leaves and tea bags to a large glass pitcher or jar.
2. Pour the cold water over the tea bags and basil, ensuring they are fully submerged.
3. Cover the container and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to steep for at least 8 hours, or up to 24 hours for a stronger flavor.
4. Remove the tea bags and basil leaves from the mixture. If using loose-leaf tea, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve.
5. Taste the tea and add simple syrup or another liquid sweetener as needed.
6. Serve the basil iced tea over ice, garnished with a slice of lemon or a fresh basil sprig <3