Strawberry Basil Margarita Cocktail Recipe

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A Strawberry Basil Margarita is a refreshing twist on the classic margarita. It’s perfect for warm weather or when you’re hosting friends and want something a little different.

This cocktail combines the sweetness of strawberries with the fresh, herbal flavor of basil. You get a drink that’s both unique and honestly, pretty easy to whip up at home.

I’ve made this recipe for friends more than a few times, and it always gets great feedback. That bright color and balanced taste really do stand out.

If you’re craving a margarita that’s not the same old thing, this fruity-herbal combo is the answer. The ingredients are simple—nothing fancy or hard to track down at most stores.

Curious? Here’s what you’ll need and how to throw it all together.

Strawberry Basil Margarita Cocktail Recipe

Strawberry Basil Margarita Cocktail Recipe
I make this drink with fresh strawberries, basil, and the usual margarita suspects. It’s honestly pretty simple if you’ve got the right tools, but it makes a cocktail that’s bright and refreshing—one that definitely stands out.
John
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Serving Size 1

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker: I use one to mix and chill the drink.
  • Muddler: Helps me mash the strawberries and basil.
  • Jigger or measuring spoons: For accurate amounts.
  • Fine mesh strainer: Removes seeds and bits.
  • Bar spoon: Useful for stirring.
  • Citrus juicer or reamer: Squeezes limes completely.
  • Knife and cutting board: For prepping fruit and garnish.
  • Short glass (rocks glass): My go-to for serving.

Ingredients

  • 2 large strawberries hulled and sliced
  • 3 –5 fresh basil leaves
  • 2 oz 60 ml tequila blanco
  • 1 oz 30 ml fresh lime juice
  • 3/4 oz 22 ml triple sec or Cointreau
  • 1/2 oz 15 ml simple syrup, or to taste
  • Ice cubes for shaking and serving
  • Kosher salt optional, for rimming
  • Extra strawberry and basil for garnish

Instructions

  • If I want a salted rim, I rub a lime around the glass edge and dip it in salt.
  • In the shaker, I muddle the strawberries and basil together until very juicy.
  • I pour in the tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and simple syrup.
  • I add a scoop of ice, then secure the lid on the shaker.
  • I shake strongly for about 15 seconds to mix and chill.
  • I strain the drink into a glass filled with fresh ice, using the mesh strainer.
  • I garnish with a sliced strawberry and a basil leaf.

Notes

I try to grab ripe, red strawberries for the sweetest flavor. If my basil is super strong, I’ll start with just three leaves and add more only if I think it needs it.
Sometimes I swap in agave syrup instead of simple syrup for a slightly different kind of sweetness. Reducing the syrup makes it more tart, which I actually like.
I usually taste before serving and adjust the lime or syrup if it’s off. This recipe doubles easily in a bigger shaker if I’m making two drinks at once.
For a smoother drink, I always strain through a fine mesh to get rid of seeds and basil bits. If there’s any leftover mix, I’ll toss it in the fridge for a few hours to keep the flavors fresh.

Must Have Ingredients

Tasting Notes

First sip? I get the bright sweetness of ripe strawberries right away. The fruit flavor is fresh, not too sugary, which I appreciate.

The basil comes in with a gentle herbal note. It adds this light, earthy aroma that balances out all the sweetness.

There’s a hint of citrus from the lime juice, which really lifts everything. It compliments the tequila and makes the whole thing pop.

The tequila’s there, but it doesn’t overpower. It just gives warmth and ties the fruit and herbs together.

The drink feels smooth and crisp over ice. I honestly love how the mix of fruit and herbs makes every sip feel extra clean and refreshing.

With each taste, I get a little bit of everything—sweet strawberry, fresh basil, bright citrus, and just enough tequila to remind you it’s a margarita.

Substitute

If I can’t find fresh strawberries, I just grab frozen ones instead.

I always thaw them first—otherwise, the flavor and texture just aren’t quite right.

When basil’s missing from my fridge, I reach for fresh mint leaves.

Mint changes the vibe a bit, but honestly, the drink still feels super refreshing.

For anyone skipping alcohol, I swap out tequila for sparkling water or lemon-lime soda.

That way, you get a light, fizzy mocktail that doesn’t feel like a compromise.

Instructions for Substitutes:

  • Use the same amounts of the substitute as the original ingredient.
  • For herbs, bruise the leaves to release flavor.
  • If you’re using juice instead of Triple Sec, toss in a little extra for sweetness.

If I want things a bit sweeter, honey or agave syrup works instead of simple syrup.

I just stir it in until it melts in—no one likes a gritty sip.

If I’m out of lime juice, I squeeze fresh lemon juice instead.

I go a bit lighter, though, so it doesn’t get too tart and overpower everything else.

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Hey there, I’m John Watson—a guy who’s spent over 20 years proving that a good drink can fix just about anything (well, almost anything). Whether it’s cocktails that wow or mocktails that mock boredom, I’m all about crafting sips with stories. Founder of ThirstyTales and full-time drink nerd, I’m here to help you shake things up, one glass at a time. Let’s mix, laugh, and maybe spill a little—cheers to the adventure!

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