Ginger honey lemon tea is one of the simplest drinks worth keeping in regular rotation once the weather turns cold. Three easy-to-find ingredients combine into something warming, gently spicy, and refreshing, with nothing exotic required.

Fresh ginger works better here than the dried, ground kind — it gives a cleaner, brighter flavor and that pleasant spicy heat that feels especially good on a cold day. The longer the ginger steeps in hot water, the stronger the tea becomes, so if you like it more intense, let it simmer a few extra minutes.

It’s best to stir the honey in once the tea has cooled slightly rather than into boiling water, which helps it keep more of its natural flavor and aroma. Lemon juice goes in last — it adds brightness and rounds out the ginger’s heat rather than fighting it.

This tea is worth drinking just for enjoyment, not only when you’re feeling under the weather — it pairs nicely with a light breakfast, or works as an alternative to regular tea or coffee after a heavy meal. For a spicier variation, try adding a couple of orange slices or a pinch of ground turmeric.