Fresh and vibrant, this citrus basil spritzer mocktail brings a burst of summer to any gathering. The simple combination of fresh citrus juice, aromatic basil leaves, and sparkling water creates a refreshing non-alcoholic drink that takes just 5 minutes to make.
The bright mix of orange and lime juice adds natural sweetness, while fresh basil leaves give an unexpected herbal twist. This eye-catching drink looks beautiful in clear glasses, making it perfect for parties, brunches, or afternoon refreshment.
Perfect for warm spring and summer days, this spritzer offers a sophisticated alternative to plain water or sugary sodas. The recipe makes enough for 4 servings and can be doubled for larger groups.
Citrus Basil Spritzer Mocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Large pitcher
- Citrus juicer
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Muddler or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tall glasses for serving
- Ice cube tray
- Stirring spoon
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh orange juice
- 1 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 4 cups sparkling water
- 1/4 cup simple syrup
- Ice cubes
- Extra basil leaves and citrus slices for garnish
Instructions
- Wash the basil leaves and pat them dry.
- Place basil leaves in the pitcher and muddle gently to release the oils.
- Add the orange juice, lime juice, and lemon juice to the pitcher.
- Pour in the simple syrup and stir well.
- Add sparkling water just before serving.
- Fill glasses with ice cubes.
- Pour the mixture into glasses.
- Garnish each glass with fresh basil leaves and citrus slices.
Notes
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Tasting Notes
This citrus basil spritzer brings bright, clean flavors that dance on the tongue. The lemon and lime notes hit first with a zippy freshness, followed by the sweet orange undertones.
Fresh basil adds an herbal complexity that keeps the drink interesting without overpowering the citrus. The carbonation creates tiny bubbles that make each sip feel light and refreshing.
The sweetness level stays balanced – just enough to take the edge off the citrus without making the drink sugary. The basil’s savory notes help offset any sweetness.
Key Flavor Elements:
- Primary: Crisp citrus blend
- Secondary: Garden-fresh basil
- Background: Light sweetness
- Finish: Clean, bubbly
The drink’s aroma matches its taste perfectly. Sweet citrus scents mix with fragrant basil, creating an inviting first impression.
When served ice-cold, this spritzer tastes most vibrant. The flavors remain distinct yet work together smoothly. Each component shines through while supporting the others.
The refreshing qualities make this drink perfect for warm days or as a sophisticated non-alcoholic option at gatherings.
Substitute
You can swap ingredients in this citrus basil spritzer to match what’s available. The recipe stays tasty with these changes.
Base Citrus Options:
- Replace lime juice with lemon juice
- Use grapefruit juice instead of orange juice
- Mix different citrus juices together
The fresh basil can be switched with mint leaves for a different flavor. Dried basil works too, but use 1/3 the amount of fresh basil called for in the recipe.
Club soda alternatives work well in this drink:
- Sparkling mineral water
- Tonic water
- Ginger ale
- Sprite or 7-Up
For a sweeter drink, trade the simple syrup with:
- Honey
- Agave nectar
- Maple syrup
- Sugar-free options: stevia or monk fruit sweetener
The citrus slices for garnish are flexible. Use any combination of lemon, lime, orange, or grapefruit wheels.
Note: Using tonic water or sweet sodas may need less added sweetener since they contain sugar already.
