If your garden is still overflowing with herbs, don’t let them go to waste! A few fresh leaves or a small sprig can add a whole new dimension to your favorite cup of tea.
From refreshing mint to aromatic rosemary, here are five fresh herbs to add to tea and some pairings to try from The Tea Smith.
Mint + Green Tea
Mint and tea are a classic combination. Fresh mint adds a cool, refreshing flavor to green tea and is especially delicious in iced tea.
Try it with: Moroccan Mint – Organic Green Tea
For an extra-fresh cup, add a few gently bruised mint leaves while your tea steeps. You can also add fresh mint to a pitcher of iced tea for a refreshing garden-to-cup drink.
Lemon Balm + White Tea
Lemon balm is a garden favorite with a naturally bright, lemony aroma. Its delicate citrus character pairs beautifully with lighter teas.
Try it with: White Peach – Organic Chinese White Tea
The combination of delicate white tea, peach, and fresh lemon balm makes a lovely late-summer or early-fall cup.
Basil + Fruit Tea
Basil might be better known for pesto than tea, but don’t overlook it! Its sweet, aromatic flavor pairs surprisingly well with fruit-forward teas.
Try it with: Blueberry Lemon Oolong
Brew the tea, let it cool, and serve it over ice with a few fresh basil leaves and a slice of lemon for a refreshing afternoon drink.
Rosemary + Earl Grey
Looking for a more unexpected combination? Try fresh rosemary with Earl Grey.
Try it with: Earl Grey Special
The citrusy character of bergamot complements rosemary’s bold, aromatic flavor. Just use a small sprig—a little rosemary goes a long way!
Sage + Apple Tea
Sage brings an earthy, savory flavor that pairs especially well with sweet fruit and warming spices.
Try it with: Almond Apple Delight
Add a small sage leaf while the tea steeps, then remove it before serving. The combination of apple, spice, and earthy sage is perfect for transitioning from summer into fall.
A Few Tips for Adding Fresh Herbs to Tea
- Start small. Fresh herbs can be surprisingly strong. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
- Gently bruise leafy herbs. A light squeeze between your fingers helps release the herbs’ aromatic oils.
- Match the herb to the tea. Delicate herbs work well with white and green teas, while stronger herbs like rosemary and sage need a tea with more body.
- Try iced tea. Mint, basil, and lemon balm are especially refreshing when added to chilled tea.
- And, of course, make sure you’re using culinary herbs that have been grown appropriately for consumption.
From the Garden to Your Teacup
One of the joys of loose-leaf tea is discovering new ways to enjoy it. Before you put your garden to bed for the season, take a few herbs from the garden and experiment with your favorite Tea Smith teas. You might just discover a new favorite combination!