Print

Refreshing Strawberry Basil Smash Cocktail Recipe

strawberry basil smash cocktail - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy homemade summer cocktail featuring fresh strawberries, basil, lemon, and your choice of spirit, topped with soda water for a refreshing and balanced drink.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–5 medium fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
  • 6–8 fresh basil leaves, young and tender
  • 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 oz (30 ml) simple syrup (homemade or store-bought)
  • 2 oz (60 ml) spirit of choice (vodka, gin, or bourbon)
  • 2–3 oz (60–90 ml) soda water, to top off
  • Ice cubes, preferably large
  • Garnish: small basil sprig and strawberry slice

Instructions

  1. Rinse strawberries and basil leaves gently under cold water. Hull and quarter the strawberries. Pat basil dry.
  2. In a mixing glass or shaker, add the strawberries and basil leaves. Using a muddler, press down gently and twist a few times to release juice and oils without pulverizing.
  3. Pour in fresh lemon juice and simple syrup. Stir gently to mix flavors.
  4. Add the spirit and fill the shaker or mixing glass halfway with ice cubes.
  5. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds or stir with a bar spoon for about 20 seconds if no shaker is available.
  6. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice, leaving some pulp if desired.
  7. Top with soda water and stir gently to combine.
  8. Garnish with a fresh basil sprig and a strawberry slice. Serve and enjoy.

Notes

Do not over-muddle basil to avoid bitterness. Use large ice cubes to slow dilution. Adjust simple syrup to taste or substitute with sugar-free syrup for keto or vegan versions. Pre-batch by muddling fruit and herbs ahead and add spirits and soda water just before serving. Store muddled mixture refrigerated up to 12 hours. Leftover cocktail can be stored sealed in fridge up to 24 hours; add fresh ice and soda water before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry basil smash, summer cocktail, refreshing drink, homemade cocktail, vodka cocktail, gin cocktail, bourbon cocktail, easy cocktail recipe

Find it online: https://islatable.com/refreshing-strawberry-basil-smash-cocktail-recipe-easy-homemade-summer-drink-to-impress/