Olive Leaf Iced Tea

Outside The Cookery School we have a mature Olive Garden, a particularly popular spot with hotel & cookery guests. We have long known that a little olive oil is a key ingredient in a healthy diet, but the extraordinary properties of the olive leaf have also been celebrated in Greece for centuries. More recent interest has prompted a number of studies, with claims for their anti-inflammatory, cholesterol busting, antioxident, immune-boosting properties building. So it seems we should approach this humble silvery leaf with some respect, and making a tea is the perfect way to enjoy them.

1. Ensure your leaves have not been sprayed with chemicals of any kind before using.

2. Pick olive leaves mid-morning, when the dew has dried from the trees.

3. Leave to dry for 3 days or very slowly in a low oven.

4. Infuse 10-15 leaves in a teapot with freshly boiled water.

5. Sweeten with honey, we use our own, to taste and then chill.

6. Serve with ice & lemon slices.

note: there is some anecdotal evidence that olive leaf tea may interfere with chemotherapy treatments, seek medical advice before combining.