
A super zesty green tea mixed with fresh citrus and fragrant rosemary makes an amazing drink that's perfect when it's hot outside. Freshly squeezed oranges and homegrown rosemary work wonders with the light green tea, giving you a naturally sweet and interesting sip that puts bottled teas to shame.
This drink was a total hit at my backyard gathering, and everyone kept asking how to make it. The surprising combo of rosemary with orange smelled so good that many people thought it was some fancy mixed drink instead of a kicked-up iced tea.
Essential Components
- Green Tea: Go for top-notch sencha or dragon well for their clean flavor profile
- Oranges: Look for plump, ripe ones with bright-colored skin
- Rosemary: Grab fresh, aromatic stems
- Honey: Unpasteurized, straight-from-the-hive adds genuine sweetness
- Ginger: Choose solid, fresh chunks
- Lemons: Either Meyer or regular ones bring that tangy zip
Making Process
- Base Mixture:
- Warm water with ginger slices and rosemary until bubbling. Take off heat, add honey until it melts. Pour into a glass container and cool completely.
- Tea Brewing:
- Make green tea following the package info, being sure not to leave it too long. Let it cool fully before refrigerating.
- Final Touches:
- Filter the herb mix into a large pitcher. Mix in the cold tea and fresh-squeezed citrus. Stir lightly. Pour over ice cubes and top with rosemary and orange slices.

The ginger really makes this drink stand out. Even folks who don't usually go for tea can't resist this refreshing mix, often mentioning how the ginger gives it just the right kick.
Time Advice
Getting the timing right turns this drink from basic to amazing. Give the herbs plenty of time to soak while keeping an eye on the tea so it doesn't get that bitter taste.
Serving Ideas
This cool tea works great with simple snacks like cheese boards or sliced fruits. The herbal flavors go really well with both sweet treats and savory bites.
Other Options
You can swap in white or oolong tea for your base. Fresh mint leaves or a bit of maple syrup can create totally different flavor combos.
Keeping Fresh
Store any leftover tea in the fridge for up to two days in glass bottles. Don't store it with ice already in it. Add a splash of fresh orange juice when you pour it again.

This drink comes from years of tweaking to get the ultimate herbal blend just right. When you mix citrus, herbs, and good tea, you end up with a fancy beverage that fits any gathering or quiet afternoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prep this orange rosemary tea early?
- Sure! It's great to make the day before. Just keep it in the fridge until serving.
- → How long does it stay good?
- It keeps fresh for up to 3 days if stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
- → Can I swap dried rosemary for fresh sprigs?
- You can, but fresh is better. To replace a sprig, use roughly 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary.
- → Can I make this sugar-free?
- Yes, just switch out the honey for your favorite sugar-free sweetener, and adjust to your liking.
- → What type of green tea works best here?
- Any green tea works, but varieties like Sencha or Gunpowder tea offer a smoother vibe.