Looking for a refreshing non-alcoholic drink? This Lemon Basil Ginger Spritz Mocktail combines zesty citrus, aromatic herbs, and spicy ginger for a perfect balance of flavors.

This simple yet sophisticated mocktail takes just five minutes to prepare. It also requires only a few basic ingredients.

The bright yellow color and fragrant aroma make this spritz a great choice for parties, brunches, or as a cooling afternoon treat. It pairs well with light appetizers and works beautifully as a signature drink for baby showers or wellness gatherings.

The subtle sweetness from honey or agave nectar can be adjusted to taste, making this mocktail customizable for everyone. The fresh basil adds an unexpected herbal note that elevates this drink beyond ordinary lemonade.

Lemon Basil Ginger Spritz Mocktail Recipe

This refreshing mocktail combines the bright flavors of lemon, aromatic basil, and spicy ginger for a perfect alcohol-free drink option.

John

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Serving Size

Equipment

Cocktail shaker
Muddler
Fine-mesh strainer
Highball or collins glasses
Ice cube tray
Citrus juicer
Measuring jigger or spoons
Small saucepan (for ginger syrup)
Cutting board and knife

Ingredients

2 oz fresh lemon juice about 1-2 lemons
1 oz ginger syrup recipe below
6-8 fresh basil leaves plus extra for garnish
4 oz sparkling water
Ice cubes
Lemon wheel for garnish

For ginger syrup:

1 cup water
1 cup granulated sugar
3- inch piece fresh ginger peeled and thinly sliced

The quality of ingredients matters in this recipe. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.

Instructions

Make ginger syrup: Combine water, sugar, and sliced ginger in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, cool completely, and strain. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Prepare the mocktail: Place basil leaves in a cocktail shaker and muddle gently to release oils.
Add lemon juice, ginger syrup, and ice to the shaker. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
Strain the mixture into an ice-filled highball glass.
Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
Garnish with a lemon wheel and fresh basil leaf.

The key to this mocktail is balance. Too much ginger can overpower the delicate basil. Adjust the ratios to suit your taste preferences.

Notes

This recipe can be easily modified. For a sweeter version, add a touch more ginger syrup.

To make it spicier, muddle a thin slice of fresh ginger with the basil.

For a party, prepare the lemon-basil-ginger base ahead of time and keep refrigerated. Add sparkling water just before serving.

Try substituting honey for the sugar in the ginger syrup for a different flavor profile.

A splash of cranberry or pomegranate juice adds color and a tart element.

This mocktail pairs well with spicy foods, grilled dishes, or as a refreshing afternoon drink. The recipe makes one serving but can be easily multiplied for a crowd.

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Tasting Notes

The Lemon Basil Ginger Spritz Mocktail offers a bright, refreshing flavor profile that balances sweet, sour, and spicy elements beautifully.

The first sip delivers a crisp citrus punch from fresh lemon juice. This tartness quickly blends with the herbal notes of basil, creating a garden-fresh taste that feels clean on the palate.

Ginger adds a gentle warmth and subtle spice that lingers pleasantly after each sip. The heat is mild—present but not overwhelming.

Flavor Intensity:

Lemon: High
Basil: Medium
Ginger: Medium-low
Sweetness: Low to medium

The carbonation from soda water provides a lively mouthfeel, making each sip feel effervescent and light. This effervescence helps carry the aromatic qualities of the herbs and spices.

When properly chilled, the mocktail presents a cool, invigorating experience perfect for warm days. The temperature enhances the herb’s fragrance and the ginger’s bite.

The aftertaste is clean with a slight herbal note and minimal sweetness. This makes it an excellent palate cleanser between meals or a refreshing afternoon beverage.

For best flavor balance, serve in a chilled glass with plenty of ice to maintain the drink’s crisp character.

Substitutes

If you don’t have all the ingredients for the Lemon Basil Ginger Spritz Mocktail, here are some easy swaps.

Herbs

Basil alternatives: Mint, cilantro, or Thai basil
No fresh herbs? Use 1 teaspoon dried basil (though fresh is better)

Citrus Options

Lemon → Lime: Creates a different but equally refreshing flavor
Meyer lemons: Sweeter than regular lemons, reduces need for sweetener

Sweeteners

Honey → Agave nectar: For a vegan option
Simple syrup → Maple syrup: Adds a subtle, warm flavor
Sugar-free options: Stevia or monk fruit extract for lower calories

Ginger Substitutions

Fresh ginger → Ground ginger: Use ¼ teaspoon ground for every tablespoon fresh
Ginger tea bags: Steep in hot water then cool for a quick ginger infusion

Sparkling water can be replaced with:

Club soda
Tonic water (adds sweetness)
Ginger ale (reduce other sweeteners if using)

For a different twist, try cucumber instead of lemon for a spa-like refreshment.

Lemon Basil Ginger Spritz Mocktail Recipe