Lemon Basil Iced Matcha

Name: Lemon Basil Iced Matcha
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons matcha powder; 1 cup cold water; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup (optional); 5-6 fresh basil leaves; Ice cubes; Lemon slices, for garnish

Highlighted under: Light & Fresh

I absolutely love making Lemon Basil Iced Matcha on warm afternoons. There’s something invigorating about the combination of smooth matcha, zesty lemon, and fragrant basil that not only refreshes but also awakens the senses. It’s become my go-to drink for a quick afternoon pick-me-up. I can easily whip it up in under 10 minutes, making it perfect for when I’m short on time but still want something delicious and unique. Plus, it's a great way to impress friends with a sophisticated yet simple drink.

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-02-13T16:14:18.679Z

When experimenting with drinks, I stumbled upon the delightful mix of flavors in Lemon Basil Iced Matcha. The fresh basil adds an unexpected depth that complements the matcha perfectly, and the lemon brings a refreshing twist. I remember the first time I made this; my friends were blown away by the unique combination, and it quickly became a staple at our get-togethers.

I discovered that using cold water instead of hot helps maintain the vibrant color of the matcha and enhances the refreshing nature of the drink. It’s essential to muddle the basil with the lemon juice to release its aromatic oils fully. This simple step transforms an ordinary drink into something extraordinary.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright citrus flavor combined with earthy matcha
Fragrant notes of basil that elevate the drink
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

The Role of Matcha

Matcha is the star ingredient in Lemon Basil Iced Matcha, and its quality can greatly affect the drink's final flavor. I recommend using ceremonial-grade matcha for the smoothest texture and richest color. When whisking, aim for a frothy consistency; this not only improves the drink's appearance but also enhances the mouthfeel. You can whisk in a zig-zag motion for about 30 seconds until you see no lumps. If you struggle to get a lump-free texture, try using a sifter before mixing.

Another great tip is to experiment with the amount of matcha powder to find your preferred balance. Some may prefer a stronger matcha flavor, while others enjoy a more subdued taste that allows the lemon and basil to shine through. Remember that matcha contains caffeine, so pay attention to how much you use, especially if consuming later in the day.

Perfecting the Basil Infusion

Muddling the basil is a crucial step in this recipe as it releases the fragrant oils, which infuse the drink with an aromatic profile. Make sure not to over-muddle; a gentle press is sufficient to release the oils without creating a bitter taste from the basil stems. If you can’t find fresh basil, you can substitute it with mint or even lemon balm for a different yet refreshing twist on this recipe.

For additional depth, consider adding a pinch of sea salt after muddling the basil and lemon juice. Salt can amplify the citrus notes and provide a delightful contrast to the earthy matcha, improving the overall flavor without overpowering the drink. Just a small amount goes a long way!

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Lemon Basil Iced Matcha, presentation is key. Use clear glasses to showcase the vibrant green matcha and bright citrus colors. To enhance the visual appeal, you can layer the ingredients by pouring the matcha slowly over the ice to create a gradient effect. For an extra layer of style, consider adding edible flowers or additional herb sprigs as garnish.

If you plan to serve this drink at a gathering, consider preparing the matcha and basil mixture in advance. Store the matcha blend in the refrigerator for up to two hours before serving. Just remember to stir it again before pouring over ice, as some settling may occur. This makes it easy to whip up multiple servings quickly!

Ingredients

For Lemon Basil Iced Matcha

2 teaspoons matcha powder
1 cup cold water
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup (optional)
5-6 fresh basil leaves
Ice cubes
Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions

Muddle the Basil

In a glass, combine fresh basil leaves and lemon juice. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently crush the basil, releasing its oils.

Mix the Matcha

In a separate bowl, sift the matcha powder to remove any clumps. Slowly whisk in cold water until fully dissolved and smooth.

Combine and Serve

Pour the matcha mixture over the muddled basil and lemon juice. Stir well. Add honey or agave syrup if desired. Fill the glass with ice cubes and garnish with lemon slices.

Pro Tips

For a stronger basil flavor, let the basil leaves steep in the lemon juice for a few minutes before combining with matcha. Feel free to adjust sweetness to your taste by adding more or less honey/agave syrup.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to get creative with the sweetener! While honey or agave syrup is recommended, you can substitute with maple syrup or even a sugar-free alternative like monk fruit sweetener for a low-calorie option. Just keep in mind that different sweeteners may alter the flavor profile slightly, so adjust the amount to suit your tastes.

If you're looking to amp up the citrus flavor even more, try adding a slice of fresh ginger or a splash of orange juice to the mix. The ginger adds a spice that pairs beautifully with the basil and lemon, creating a unique twist on the traditional iced matcha.

Storage Tips

Lemon Basil Iced Matcha is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store the matcha mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the freshness of basil will deteriorate over time, so consume your stored drink as soon as possible for the best flavor.

To prepare this drink in bulk, consider making a concentrated matcha base. Simply double the matcha and water proportions, store it in the fridge, and dilute with additional cold water or ice just before serving. This approach can save you time when entertaining guests on a warm day.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your matcha ends up clumpy despite sifting, you can try using a blender for smoother results. Blending for about 10-15 seconds will give you that smooth consistency without the need for excessive whisking. This method is also perfect for those who may not have a traditional bamboo whisk on hand.

If you find the drink too tart or too sweet after mixing, adjust gradually. Adding a bit more lemon juice can brighten the flavors if it’s too sweet, while blending in more honey or sweetener can counterbalance excess tartness. Always taste the mixture before serving to ensure it meets your flavor preference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use hot water instead of cold?

Using hot water can make the matcha bitter. Stick to cold water for a refreshing drink.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can easily make it vegan by using agave syrup instead of honey.

→ Can I prepare this drink in advance?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the matcha and muddled basil separately and combine them when you're ready to serve.

→ What if I don't have fresh basil?

Dried basil can be used in a pinch, but fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor and aroma.