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strawberry basil cocktail recipe

Strawberry Basil Smash

Whether you're looking for a revitalizing summer mocktail or a refreshing non-alcoholic treat, the Strawberry Basil Smash is a perfect choice. Juicy strawberries, fragrant basil, and a splash of sparkling water come together to create a drink that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 drink
Course: Beverage, Mocktail
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 5 medium strawberries hulled (plus an extra slice for garnish)
  • 6-8 fresh basil leaves (plus a small sprig for garnish)
  • 1 ounce fresh lemon juice
  • ½-1 ounce simple syrup or honey/agave to taste
  • 3-4 ounces chilled sparkling water
  • Ice crushed or cubes
  • Optional: homemade basil-infused simple syrup for extra herbal notes

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker or sturdy glass
  • Muddler or wooden spoon
  • Fine-mesh strainer (optional)
  • Serving glass

Method
 

  1. In a cocktail shaker (or any sturdy glass), add the 5 hulled strawberries and 6-8 basil leaves.
  2. Muddle the strawberries and basil firmly with a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon until the strawberries release their juice and the basil releases its aroma.
  3. Add 1 ounce of fresh lemon juice and start with ½ ounce of simple syrup (adjust to taste later).
  4. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled and combined.
  5. Strain the mixture into an ice-filled glass using a fine-mesh strainer if you prefer fewer seeds.
  6. Top off the drink with 3-4 ounces of chilled sparkling water and gently stir. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
  7. Garnish with an extra strawberry slice and a small sprig of basil, then serve immediately.

Notes

This Strawberry Basil Smash is an incredibly versatile mocktail perfect for hot summer days. You can experiment with variations like adding a splash of aged balsamic vinegar for extra depth or swapping lemon juice for lime for a zesty twist. Homemade basil-infused simple syrup can offer an extra layer of herbal flavor, but regular simple syrup works beautifully too. Enjoy it as a refreshing stand-alone drink or pair it with light appetizers like goat cheese crostini or bruschetta.