Strawberry Basil Lemonade Cocktail Recipe

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Sweet and tangy strawberries meet fragrant garden basil in this refreshing summer drink.

This simple yet elegant cocktail blends fresh muddled strawberries, homemade basil syrup, tart lemon juice, and your choice of vodka or gin for a perfect patio sipper.

The bright red color and garden-fresh herbs make this drink a standout at parties and backyard gatherings. People love watching the bartender muddle fresh berries and herbs, creating a drink that looks as good as it tastes.

This recipe takes classic lemonade to new heights with minimal effort. The mix of sweet berries, aromatic basil, and zesty citrus creates layers of flavor that work together perfectly.

Strawberry Basil Lemonade Cocktail Recipe

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This refreshing drink combines sweet strawberries, fresh basil, and tangy lemonade with vodka for a perfect summer cocktail.

John

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Serving Size 8

Equipment

• Large pitcher
• Muddler or wooden spoon
• Fine-mesh strainer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife
• Cutting Board
• Ice cube tray
• Collins glasses

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
• 15-20 fresh basil leaves
• 1 cup vodka
• 4 cups fresh lemonade
• 1/4 cup simple syrup
• Ice cubes
• Extra strawberries and basil for garnish

Instructions

• Add sliced strawberries and basil leaves to the pitcher. Muddle them gently to release the flavors.
• Pour in the vodka and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to infuse.
• Add the lemonade and simple syrup. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
• Strain the mixture into a clean pitcher to remove the muddled fruit and herbs.
• Fill Collins glasses with ice. Pour the cocktail mixture over the ice.
• Garnish each glass with a fresh strawberry and basil leaf.

Notes

The drink can be made up to 4 hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

For a non-alcoholic version, skip the vodka and add an extra cup of lemonade.

Use fresh strawberries when they’re in season for the best flavor. Frozen strawberries can work in a pinch.

Make sure to muddle the basil gently to avoid bitter flavors from the leaves.

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Tasting Notes

This strawberry basil lemonade cocktail offers a perfect mix of sweet and tart flavors. The fresh strawberries bring a natural sweetness that blends with the bright citrus notes of fresh lemon juice.

Fresh basil adds an aromatic, herbal element that lifts the drink’s flavor profile. The vodka provides a clean, subtle base that lets the fruit and herb flavors shine through.

Main Flavor Components:

• Sweet: Fresh strawberries
• Tart: Fresh lemon juice
• Herbal: Muddled basil
• Smooth: Vodka base

The drink starts with a sweet strawberry note, followed by zesty lemon. The basil lingers on the finish, creating a refreshing aftertaste.

The texture is smooth and light, with tiny bits of muddled strawberry and basil adding interest. A touch of simple syrup balances the natural acidity of the lemons without making the cocktail too sweet.

For the best taste experience, serve this cocktail well-chilled over fresh ice. The flavors will become more integrated as the ice melts slightly.

Substitute

You can swap ingredients in this strawberry basil lemonade cocktail to match your taste or what’s in your kitchen.

Replace vodka with gin or white rum for a different flavor profile. Non-alcoholic versions work great with sparkling water or ginger ale instead of liquor.

No fresh strawberries? Use 2 tablespoons of strawberry syrup or puree instead. Frozen strawberries make a good substitute too. Just thaw them first.

Fresh basil can be switched with mint leaves. The drink will have a different taste but remains refreshing. If you’re using dried basil, add just 1/4 teaspoon.

Replace regular lemonade with pink lemonade or limeade. For a sweeter drink, mix in 1-2 tablespoons of simple syrup.

Alternative Sweeteners:

• Honey
• Agave nectar
• Maple syrup
• Stevia

Store-bought lemonade works fine if you don’t want to make it from scratch. Just pick a brand you like and adjust the sweetness as needed.

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