Strawberry Basil Lemonade Recipe (summer mocktail)
This naturally sweetened strawberry basil lemonade mocktail is a fresh twist on a classic summer drink—made with fresh strawberries, vibrant basil, and fresh lemon juice for a perfectly balanced summer drink that’s both refreshing and enjoyed by the whole family.
SERVINGS 8 people
Equipment
- Blender or food processor
- Citrus juicer (or use bottled lemon juice)
- Fine mesh strainer (optional)
- Pitcher
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved (400 grams) frozen works too
- ⅔ cups honey or maple syrup, or to taste (200 grams) or make a simple syrup using cane sugar and hot water
- 1 cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice (from about 6–8 lemons) (240 milliliters)
- 12–14 fresh basil leaves, torn
- 3 cups cold water (720 milliliters)
- (optional) extra strawberries, lemon slices, and basil sprigs – for garnish
Instructions
- In a blender, combine the strawberries, lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, and basil leaves. Blend until smooth.
- (Optional) Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher for a smoother drink.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help the flavors meld, and to chill the flavor base. At this point you could store the puree in the refrigerator until you would like to serve, but only for 2-3 days maximum.
- When it’s time to serve, add to 3 cups of cold water in a serving pitcher and stir to combine. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tartness if needed.
- For added decoration, put slices of fresh strawberries and a handful of basil in the pitcher of lemonade.
- Serve over ice, garnished with fresh basil and lemon slices.
Notes
To make this a sparkling lemonade drink, swap half or all of the water with sparkling water or club soda just before serving.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!