A Lemon Basil Tequila Cocktail is a refreshing drink that mixes the bright taste of lemon with the sweet, peppery flavor of fresh basil and the smooth kick of tequila. I love how this simple mix gives a fresh twist to classic tequila cocktails.

It stands out with flavors that are both light and satisfying. When I want something quick and a bit different, this drink is easy to make with stuff I can grab at just about any grocery store.

The recipe’s simple enough for anyone to try, even if you’re not usually the one mixing drinks. I find it ideal for warm days or small get-togethers, or really anytime I want something tasty with a little extra flavor.

If you’re looking to try a new drink that’s easy, bright, and full of taste, this one’s a good place to start.

Lemon Basil Tequila Cocktail Recipe

I use fresh lemon juice and basil to make my tequila cocktail taste bright and refreshing. The method is simple, and you really don’t need any special skills to get good results.

John

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Serving Size

Equipment

For this recipe, I need a sturdy cocktail shaker to properly mix the ingredients and chill the drink.
I use a muddler to bruise the basil leaves and get that flavor out.

A jigger (or just any small measuring cup) helps me measure the tequila and other stuff.
I always grab a fine-mesh strainer when pouring, just to catch the basil bits and any ice shards.
I serve the cocktail in a short glass, like an old-fashioned glass.

A citrus juicer makes squeezing the lemon fast and easy.
I keep a small spoon handy to stir if needed.

Ingredients

I go for fresh ingredients to keep the cocktail crisp. Here’s what I use:

2 oz 60 ml tequila (blanco or reposado)

1 oz 30 ml fresh lemon juice
3/4 oz 22 ml simple syrup
5 to 6 fresh basil leaves
Ice cubes
Lemon wheel or basil sprig for garnish

Instructions

Place the basil leaves in the bottom of the shaker.
Gently muddle them with the simple syrup to release their oils. I try not to shred the leaves to bits.
Add tequila, lemon juice, and plenty of ice to the shaker.

Secure the lid and shake hard for about 15 seconds. This chills the mix and blends the flavors nicely.
Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice, using a fine mesh strainer to remove the basil pieces.
Garnish with a lemon wheel or a fresh basil sprig.

I like to serve the cocktail right away so it stays cold and fresh.

Notes

Sometimes I swap lime for lemon if I want a different citrus flavor. If I want it less sweet, I just cut back on the simple syrup a bit.

For a fizzy version, I’ll add a splash of club soda after pouring the cocktail into the glass. When I use big basil leaves, I tear them in half before muddling to get more flavor out.

I always taste before serving to adjust the sweetness or add more lemon if it needs more tartness. Using fresh basil and lemon is really key for a lively, fragrant drink.

Tasting Notes

When I take a sip of this Lemon Basil Tequila Cocktail, the first thing I notice is the bright, zesty lemon flavor. It’s got a gentle tartness that wakes up my taste buds right away.

The freshness of basil comes through next. There’s a mild earthy note that balances well with the sharp lemon.

The aroma of the basil also adds a hint of green freshness as I bring the glass close. The tequila brings a light warmth, not overpowering, but blending in smoothly.

The finish is clean and just a bit herbal. The aftertaste leaves a pleasant combo of citrus and basil.

There’s no heavy or lingering sweetness, which I really appreciate. I think this drink is bright and balanced—each ingredient stands out, but nothing covers up the others.

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Substitute

If I don’t have lemon basil, I’ll just grab regular basil and grate in a little lemon zest. That combo still gives a bright, fresh taste and honestly works really well in the cocktail.

Sometimes, I run out of tequila. White rum or even vodka both work as swaps.

They mix pretty smoothly and let the basil and citrus flavors do their thing. Not a bad backup plan, if you ask me.

If I want a less sweet drink, I’ll use agave nectar instead of simple syrup. It’s a little smoother, and I like how it mellows things out.

Lime juice is another easy substitute for lemon juice. Sure, it changes the flavor a bit, but it still tastes good—sometimes even better, depending on your mood.

Lemon Basil Tequila Cocktail Recipe