All the flavor, none of the buzz.

When you're planning a dinner, a brunch, or an afternoon with friends, the drinks usually come down to wine, coffee, or something sparkling. Tea is worth a place on that list too. It gives everyone at the table something to sip and talk about, and it's a real option for guests who aren't drinking — whether they're skipping alcohol that evening, cutting back on caffeine, or just want something other than another glass of water. Most people have had tea, but far fewer have had it paired thoughtfully with a meal or worked into the food itself. Both are easier than they sound. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Iced tea is one of the easiest ways to enjoy loose leaf tea in warm weather. It’s refreshing, naturally flavorful, and simple to make at home without relying on bottled drinks, mixes, or pre-sweetened teas.

The good news is that nearly any loose leaf tea can be served iced. June is National Iced Tea Month, which makes it the perfect time to learn how easy it is to make iced tea with loose leaf tea.

One of the benefits of making iced tea at home is that you can control the strength, sweetness, and ingredients. Whether you like a classic black iced tea, a bright hibiscus herbal tea, or a refreshing green tea over ice, the basic process is simple.

Does tea have caffeine? It’s one of the questions I get asked most often.

Short answer: Yes—most tea contains caffeine, typically between 20–60 mg per cup, though the exact amount varies widely depending on the tea and how it’s brewed.

But how much caffeine ends up in your cup depends on more than just the type of tea. In fact, it’s one of the most misunderstood aspects of tea, and a common source of confusion for people trying to manage their intake.

This post breaks down the factors that affect caffeine in tea, what matters (and what doesn’t), and how to choose something that works for you.