Refreshing and vibrant, the Sparkling Strawberry Basil Smash Cocktail is perfect for warm summer days. This drink blends sweet strawberries with zesty basil for a unique flavor. The fizzy finish adds a fun twist to this tasty beverage.
The recipe uses fresh strawberries, basil leaves, lime juice, simple syrup, vodka, and sparkling water. These ingredients mix to create a bright, fruity drink. The basil adds an unexpected herbal note that complements the berries nicely.
This cocktail works well for parties or quiet evenings at home. Its eye-catching pink color and garnishes make it look as good as it tastes. With just a few steps, anyone can whip up this delicious summer sipper.
Sparkling Strawberry Basil Smash Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Muddler
- Cocktail shaker
- Strainer
- Champagne flute or tall glass
- Measuring jigger
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for one cocktail:
- 3 fresh strawberries sliced
- 4-5 basil leaves
- 1 oz 30 ml simple syrup
- 1 oz 30 ml fresh lemon juice
- 2 oz 60 ml vodka
- 2-3 oz 60-90 ml sparkling wine or champagne
- Ice cubes
- Extra strawberry and basil for garnish
For simple syrup, mix equal parts sugar and water in a pan. Heat until sugar dissolves, then cool before using.
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your cocktail:
- Add strawberries and basil to the shaker. Muddle gently to release flavors.
- Pour in simple syrup, lemon juice, and vodka. Fill shaker with ice.
- Shake well for 10-15 seconds.
- Strain into a glass filled with ice.
- Top with sparkling wine.
- Garnish with a strawberry slice and basil leaf.
- Stir gently and enjoy!
For a non-alcoholic version, skip the vodka and use sparkling water instead of wine.
Notes
If you like it tart, use more lemon juice.
Try different herbs like mint or thyme instead of basil.
Make a big batch for parties by multiplying the recipe.
Keep your strawberries fresh in the fridge until ready to use. Wash and dry basil leaves gently to avoid bruising.
Tasting Notes
The Sparkling Strawberry Basil Smash Cocktail offers a refreshing blend of flavors. Sweet strawberries pair with aromatic basil for a bright, fruity taste. The drink has a light, effervescent texture from the sparkling wine.
On the nose, fresh strawberry scents mingle with herbal basil notes. The first sip reveals a juicy strawberry flavor. Basil adds a subtle peppery kick that balances the sweetness.
The cocktail has a crisp, clean finish. Bubbles from the sparkling wine tickle the tongue. Its light pink color looks pretty in the glass.
This drink works well as a summer sipper. It’s not too strong, making it good for daytime events. The flavors are bold enough to stand up to light appetizers or snacks.
Flavor profile:
- Sweet
- Fruity
- Herbal
- Bubbly
Pairs well with:
- Fresh fruit
- Cheese plates
- Light salads
- Grilled chicken
Substitute
No strawberries? No problem! You can swap them for other berries or fruits in this tasty drink. Try raspberries, blackberries, or peaches instead. These options will give the cocktail a different flavor but keep it fruity and refreshing.
If you’re out of basil, mint works well too. It adds a cool, fresh taste that goes nicely with fruit. For a twist, use rosemary or thyme. These herbs bring a unique flavor to the drink.
Don’t have sparkling wine? Use club soda or tonic water. This keeps the fizz without the alcohol. For a sweeter touch, try ginger ale or lemon-lime soda.
No vodka? Gin is a good stand-in. It has a distinct taste that pairs well with fruit and herbs. For a non-alcoholic version, leave out the liquor entirely. The drink will still be yummy and fun.
Remember, cocktails are flexible. Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have. The key is to have fun and enjoy your custom creation!
