Too hot to turn on the oven? This strawberry basil smash is for you. Nothing beats a cold drink on a sunny afternoon. It is bright, fizzy, and full of garden-fresh flavor.
This drink delivers a sweet and herbal kick. It feels like a fancy restaurant treat at home. You will love how easy it is to make. It is the ultimate summer refresher for your family.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a winner because it uses simple ingredients. You likely have most of them in your kitchen now. It is ready in 5 minutes and tastes like sunshine.
Your holiday guests will love this colorful drink. It looks impressive but requires zero expert skills. It is perfect for busy summer evenings on the porch. Every sip feels like a mini-vacation.
Simple Method
Making this drink is as simple as mashing fruit. You just muddle, shake, and pour. Even if you are a beginner, you can do this. Use a jar if you lack a shaker. It is a doable and fun way to mix drinks.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients highlight seasonal produce at its absolute best.
- 2 ounces gin
- 0.75 ounce fresh lemon juice
- 0.75 ounce simple syrup
- 3 fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 5 fresh basil leaves
- Ice cubes
- Club soda (optional)
- 1 fresh basil sprig for garnish
Step-by-Step
- Place the strawberries, basil leaves, and simple syrup into a cocktail shaker.
- Muddle the ingredients thoroughly to express the oils from the basil and the juice from the strawberries.
- Add the gin and fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for approximately 15 seconds until well-chilled.
- Double strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with a splash of club soda if a lighter effervescence is desired.
- Garnish with a fresh basil sprig and serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this warm-weather favorite in a pretty rocks glass. The red and green colors look beautiful and festive. Pair it with light snacks or grilled chicken. Set the table and enjoy it with your favorite person.
Keep It Fresh
Cocktails are always best when enjoyed right away. However, you can prep the berries ahead of time. Wash and hull them the morning of your party. This makes hosting much easier when guests arrive. Keep your simple syrup in the fridge for weeks.
Recipe Tips
- Use the freshest basil for the best herbal scent.
- Don’t over-muddle the basil or it might turn bitter.
- Swap gin for vodka if you prefer a neutral taste.
- Pick the ripest berries for natural sweetness and color.
- Double the batch for a larger summer gathering.
- Use a wooden spoon if you do not have a muddler.
- Add extra club soda for a lighter, fizzy version.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Make it a mocktail by skipping the gin entirely.
- In summer, swap strawberries for fresh garden blackberries.
- Use honey instead of simple syrup for richer flavor.
- Add a splash of lime for a tarter finish.
Common Questions
What if I don’t have a cocktail shaker?
You can use a mason jar with a lid. It works just as well for chilling the drink. Just strain it through a small kitchen sieve.
Can I make this kid-friendly?
Yes, simply leave out the gin and add more soda. It becomes a refreshing strawberry lemonade for the kids. They will love the bright red color.
How do I know the strawberries are muddled enough?
The berries should look smashed and the juice should be released. The syrup will turn a vibrant pink color. This takes about 20 seconds of firm pressing.
I hope this strawberry basil smash brings a little joy to your summer. It is the perfect way to slow down and enjoy the season. Happy sipping!
— Lidia
Strawberry Basil Smash
Ingredients
- 2 ounces gi n
- 0.75 ounce fresh lemon juice
- 0.75 ounce simple syrup
- 3 fresh strawberries , hulled and halved
- 5 fresh basil leaves
- Ice cube s
- Club soda (optional)
- 1 fresh basil sprig for garnish
Instructions
- Place the strawberries, basil leaves, and simple syrup into a cocktail shaker.
- Muddle the ingredients thoroughly to express the oils from the basil and the juice from the strawberries.
- Add the gin and fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for approximately 15 seconds until well-chilled.
- Double strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with a splash of club soda if a lighter effervescence is desired.
- Garnish with a fresh basil sprig and serve immediately.
