Homemade Lemon Rosemary Iced Tea

This refreshing Lemon Rosemary Iced Tea combines bright citrus with the earthy aroma of fresh rosemary for a crisp, garden-inspired drink that’s perfect for warm summer days.

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Whether you’re harvesting rosemary from your herb garden or picking up a fresh bundle at the market, this easy homemade iced tea is a delicious way to enjoy one of the garden’s most versatile herbs.

If you love homemade herbal drinks, be sure to try my Lemon Balm Iced Tea, Chamomile Iced Tea, Lavender Iced Tea, Rose Iced Tea, and Hibiscus Iced Tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bright, refreshing lemon flavor
Fresh rosemary adds a subtle herbal aroma
Naturally refreshing for hot summer days
Easy to make in under 20 minutes
Perfect for garden parties and afternoon gatherings
Beautiful garnish for entertaining

Ingredients

4 cups water
4 black tea bags (or 2 tablespoons loose black tea)
3 sprigs fresh rosemary
1 large lemon, sliced
2–4 tablespoons honey or sugar, to taste
Ice
Lemon slices and rosemary sprigs for garnish

How to Make Lemon Rosemary Iced Tea

Step 1

Bring the water to a boil.

Step 2

Remove from the heat and add the tea bags, rosemary sprigs, and half of the lemon slices.

Steep for 5–7 minutes.

Step 3

Remove the tea bags, rosemary, and lemon slices.

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Stir in the honey or sugar while the tea is still warm.

Step 4

Allow the tea to cool before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.

Step 5

Serve over ice with fresh lemon slices and a sprig of rosemary.

Tips for the Best Lemon Rosemary Iced Tea

Fresh rosemary provides the best flavor.
Don’t steep the rosemary too long or it can overpower the tea.
Add extra lemon juice just before serving for a brighter citrus flavor.
Chill overnight for the best flavor.
Garnish with fresh rosemary for a beautiful presentation.

Variations

Sparkling Lemon Rosemary Tea

Top each glass with sparkling water for a light, fizzy drink.

Honey Lemon Rosemary Tea

Sweeten with local honey instead of sugar for a naturally floral sweetness.

Lemon Rosemary Mint Tea

Add a few fresh mint leaves while steeping.

If you enjoy minty herbal drinks, you’ll love my upcoming Mint Iced Tea.

Lavender Lemon Rosemary Tea

Add a small pinch of culinary lavender for an elegant floral twist.

Be sure to try my Lavender Iced Tea for another garden-inspired favorite.

Lemon Balm Rosemary Tea

Replace half of the rosemary with fresh lemon balm leaves.

You’ll also enjoy my Lemon Balm Iced Tea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried rosemary?

Fresh rosemary produces a much cleaner flavor, but you can substitute 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary if needed.

Can I make this caffeine-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute your favorite decaffeinated black tea or use an herbal tea base.

How long does it keep?

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemons provide the brightest flavor and are highly recommended.

More Herbal Tea Recipes

If you love making herbal drinks from the garden, don’t miss these refreshing recipes:

They’re all easy to make and perfect for enjoying fresh herbs and seasonal flavors throughout the summer.

Follow my herbal teas board on Pinterest.