Passion Tango Tea is a caffeine-free herbal tea blend featuring hibiscus, lemongrass, and apple, known for its vibrant flavor and refreshing qualities.
Starbucks Passion Tango Tea is a caffeine-free herbal blend featuring hibiscus, lemongrass, and apple flavors. This vibrant iced tea has become a fan favorite for its refreshing taste and eye-catching pink hue. Whether you’re avoiding caffeine or simply craving a fruity beverage, this guide covers everything from ingredients to DIY recipes.
What Is Passion Tango Tea?
Passion Tango Tea is Starbucks’ signature herbal iced tea made from a blend of:
- Hibiscus flowers (provides tartness and vibrant color)
- Lemongrass (adds citrusy notes)
- Apple pieces (contributes natural sweetness)
- Cinnamon (for subtle warmth)
- Rose hips (boosts vitamin C content)
Caffeine Content
Unlike traditional teas, Passion Tango contains zero caffeine since it’s an herbal infusion rather than true tea from Camellia sinensis leaves. This makes it ideal for:
- Pregnant women
- Those sensitive to caffeine
- Evening drinkers
Nutritional Profile
Size | Calories | Sugar | Carbs |
---|---|---|---|
Tall (12oz) | 0 | 0g | 0g |
Grande (16oz) | 0 | 0g | 0g |
Venti (24oz) | 0 | 0g | 0g |
Note: Nutritional values increase when adding sweeteners or lemonade. A grande Passion Tea Lemonade contains 120 calories and 27g sugar.
How to Order at Starbucks
Basic Order
Simply ask for an “Iced Passion Tango Tea.” It comes unsweetened by default.
Popular Customizations
- Sweetened: Add liquid cane sugar (1-4 pumps depending on size)
- Passion Tea Lemonade: Half tea, half lemonade
- With Juice: Try apple or peach juice instead of lemonade
- Light Ice: Get more beverage for your money
DIY Passion Tango Tea Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 Tazo Passion tea bags (or 2 tbsp loose hibiscus tea)
- 4 cups boiling water
- Honey or sweetener to taste (optional)
- Lemonade or juice (optional)
Preparation
- Steep tea bags in boiling water for 5-7 minutes
- Remove bags and stir in sweetener if using
- Cool to room temperature then refrigerate
- Serve over ice with lemonade if desired
For a stronger brew like Starbucks uses, make a concentrate by doubling the tea bags and diluting with water when serving.
Health Benefits
The hibiscus in Passion Tango Tea offers several potential benefits:
- Rich in antioxidants that fight free radicals
- May help lower blood pressure (according to this NIH study)
- Natural diuretic properties
- High vitamin C content from rose hips
Equipment Recommendations
To make perfect iced tea at home:
- Use a glass pitcher to prevent flavors from absorbing
- Consider a cold brew system for smoother tea
- Store in airtight bottles to maintain freshness
Fun Variations to Try
Passion Tea Mojito (Non-Alcoholic)
Muddle mint leaves with lime juice, add Passion Tea and sparkling water.
Tropical Passion Tea
Mix with pineapple juice and garnish with orange slices.
Berry Passion Tea
Add muddled raspberries or blackberries before serving.
Storing Tips
- Keep concentrate refrigerated for up to 3 days
- Store without ice to prevent dilution
- Freeze in ice cube trays for future use