This refreshing citrus basil smash mocktail brings garden-fresh flavors to any gathering.
Fresh citrus juice and muddled basil create a bright and zesty drink that’s perfect for warm spring days.
The combination of sweet oranges, tangy lemons, and aromatic basil makes a drink that tastes just as good as any alcoholic cocktail.
Making this mocktail at home takes less than 5 minutes.
The recipe uses simple ingredients found at most grocery stores.
The drink works great for parties, brunches, or any time you want something special without alcohol.
Citrus Basil Smash Mocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail muddler (or wooden spoon)
- Cocktail shaker
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Collins glass
- Ice cube tray
- Citrus juicer
- Measuring jigger or cups
Ingredients
- 4-5 fresh basil leaves
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz fresh orange juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 3-4 oz sparkling water
- Ice cubes
- Basil sprig and citrus wheel for garnish
Instructions
- Add basil leaves to the cocktail shaker.
- Muddle the basil gently to release its oils.
- Pour in the lemon, lime, and orange juices.
- Add simple syrup to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake for 10-15 seconds.
- Fill a Collins glass with fresh ice.
- Strain the mixture into the glass.
- Top with sparkling water.
- Garnish with a basil sprig and citrus wheel.
Notes
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Tasting Notes
This bright and zesty mocktail offers a perfect balance of sweet citrus and fresh herbs.
The fresh basil leaves add an aromatic touch that pairs beautifully with the citrus notes.
The first sip brings forward the tangy lime juice, followed by subtle hints of orange.
These citrus flavors create a refreshing and clean taste on the palate.
A light sweetness from the simple syrup helps smooth out the drink’s acidic elements.
The combination creates a well-rounded flavor profile that isn’t too tart or too sweet.
The carbonated water adds a pleasant fizzy texture.
Each bubble carries the aromatic basil essence, making every sip both refreshing and interesting.
Key Flavor Notes:
- Bright citrus (lime and orange)
- Fresh garden basil
- Light sweetness
- Crisp bubbles
The drink’s pleasant aftertaste leaves hints of herbs and citrus.
These flavors linger briefly, making it an ideal choice for warm afternoons or as a non-alcoholic option at parties.
Substitute
You can make this mocktail with different ingredients if you don’t have everything on hand. Each swap keeps the drink’s fresh taste while adding new flavor notes.
Replace the citrus juice with other fruits. Try grapefruit, tangerine, or blood orange juice instead of regular orange juice. Each brings its own sweet-tart balance.
Main citrus substitutes:
- Grapefruit juice
- Tangerine juice
- Blood orange juice
- Lemon-lime mix
Switch up the herbs too. Fresh mint gives a cool taste, while rosemary adds pine notes. Thai basil brings a hint of spice.
No fresh herbs? Use 1/4 teaspoon dried basil or 2-3 drops basil extract. The flavor won’t be as bright, but it works in a pinch.
For the sweetener, try:
- Simple syrup
- Agave nectar
- Maple syrup
- Honey
Skip the club soda and use sparkling water or tonic water instead. Each adds different bubbles and taste to the drink.
