Strawberry Basil Smash is a bright, simple cocktail that I enjoy making at home.

This recipe mixes fresh strawberries and basil to give the drink a refreshing, slightly sweet taste with a hint of herbal flavor. It’s a good choice for warm days or whenever I want something light.

The steps are easy to follow, and I only need a few ingredients.

I find that the fresh basil makes a big difference and balances the sweetness of the strawberries.

This drink can fit many occasions, whether I’m hosting friends or just relaxing by myself.

Strawberry Basil Smash Cocktail Recipe

I use fresh ingredients and easy steps to prepare a Strawberry Basil Smash. This drink combines sweet strawberries and fragrant basil with a balanced mix of spirits and citrus.

John

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Serving Size

Equipment

I use a muddler to press the strawberries and basil.
A cocktail shaker helps mix everything well.
I need a strainer to pour the drink cleanly into the glass.

I use a jigger or small measuring cup for the liquor and juice.
I pick a short glass, like an old-fashioned glass or a small tumbler.
For serving, I add a straw and use a spoon to stir.

Ingredients

Here is my usual list, measured for one drink:

2 large strawberries hulled and halved
4 –5 fresh basil leaves
1 ½ oz gin or vodka

¾ oz fresh lemon juice
½ oz simple syrup
Club soda to top

Ice cubes
I prepare extra strawberries and basil for garnish.

Instructions

First, I add the strawberries and basil to the shaker.

I muddle them gently so the juices and oils mix but the herbs don’t turn bitter.
I pour in the gin or vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
Next, I add ice cubes and put the lid on tight.

I shake the mixture well for about 15 seconds.
Using the strainer, I pour the mix into my glass filled with fresh ice.
I top the drink with club soda, then stir softly to combine.

I add a basil leaf and a strawberry slice for decoration.
I serve right away.

Notes

When picking strawberries, I look for bright red color and no bruises.

For basil, I use leaves that look fresh and smell strong.

Over-muddling basil makes it taste bitter, so I press gently.

I use more or less simple syrup depending on how sweet the berries are.

If I want a stronger flavor, I let the strawberries and basil sit in the shaker for a minute after muddling.

If I don’t have simple syrup, I mix equal parts sugar and water until it dissolves.

For a non-alcoholic option, I skip the spirits and use more club soda and lemon juice.

Must Have Ingredients

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Tasting Notes

When I take a sip of the Strawberry Basil Smash, I first notice the bright flavor of fresh strawberries.

The berry taste is sweet but not overpowering.

Basil gives a clean, herbal note that mixes smoothly with the fruit.

I like how the basil’s freshness balances the sweetness from the strawberries.

The citrus juice adds a mild tang.

It keeps the drink from tasting too sugary.

The finish is crisp and slightly cool, thanks to both the basil and the citrus.

I notice that the herbs stay on my tongue for a moment after drinking.

Texture:

Light
Slightly pulpy (from muddled berries)
Refreshing

The colors also add to my experience.

The drink is a light pink, and the green basil stands out in the glass. It looks as fresh as it tastes.

Substitute

If I don’t have basil, I usually reach for fresh mint leaves instead. Mint’s got that cool, refreshing vibe and honestly, it goes great with strawberries, too.

For the strawberry part, I’ll sometimes toss in raspberries. Blueberries or blackberries work, too.

Each of those fruits brings its own twist, but the drink still feels light and fruity. Maybe it’s a little different, but I kind of like that.

When I’m making a non-alcoholic version, I just swap out the gin for club soda. Tonic water or lemon-lime soda also do the trick.

That way, you still get something fizzy and fresh, minus the booze.

If I’m craving something sweeter, I’ll use honey or agave syrup instead of simple syrup. Sometimes I want a tangier kick, so I’ll splash in grapefruit or lime juice in place of lemon juice.

I always muddle the substitute herbs or fruit really well. Gotta get those flavors mixed in, right?

Honestly, the most important thing is to use fresh ingredients. That’s what makes it taste good, every single time.

Strawberry Basil Smash Cocktail Recipe