Strawberry Basil Cocktail

This delightful Strawberry Basil Cocktail combines the juicy sweetness of strawberries with the aromatic touch of fresh basil, creating a refreshing drink perfect for warm days or social gatherings. The cocktail's vibrant, natural flavors make it stand out, and it's an easy beverage to prepare for both casual and festive occasions. Using simple, fresh ingredients, this drink is not only delicious but also a healthier option compared to sugary store-bought alternatives. You can adjust the sweetness according to your preference with stevia, honey, or another sweetener. The lemon juice provides a tangy undertone that complements the strawberries beautifully. Ice is essential in this cocktail, giving it a slushy, cooling texture. The final touch, a garnish of basil leaves and fresh strawberries, adds an elegant appearance your guests will love. It’s a versatile recipe, suitable for both alcohol-free enjoyment and as a base for creating a more spirited variation. Indulge in this easy-to-make, flavorful cocktail and let it be the star of your next event.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

500 g strawberries
1/2 lemon juice
1 kg ice
200-500 ml water
Stevia, honey, or other sweetener to taste

Spices and Garnishes

20 g basil leaves, plus extra for garnish

Preparation Time

40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries: Begin by placing 450 g of strawberries in the freezer for approximately 30 minutes. This process will make them cold without freezing them completely.
Prepare the Blender: After the strawberries are suitably chilled, take your blender and add the ice cubes, basil leaves, and lemon juice.
Add Sweetener: Depending on your taste preferences, add stevia, honey, or another sweetener of choice to counterbalance the tartness.
Blend Ingredients: Remove the strawberries from the freezer and add them to the blender.
Achieve the Right Consistency: Start blending the mixture, gradually adding water until you achieve your desired cocktail texture.
Ensure Even Mixing: Blend the mixture thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined and the basil is evenly distributed.
Taste Test: Once blended, take a small taste of your cocktail. Adjust the sweetness or lemon juice as desired to perfect the flavor.
Chill Further if Desired: If you prefer a more chilled drink, consider adding additional ice cubes and blend again briefly.
Garnish the Drink: Before serving, garnish each glass with a basil leaf, a few leftover strawberries, and a wedge of lemon for an attractive presentation.
Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your cocktail immediately while it’s still refreshingly cold.

Tips

Customization: Feel free to adjust the ingredient ratios if you prefer a stronger basil or lemon flavor.
Alternative Sweeteners: For a more natural option, honey is an excellent choice, adding both sweetness and depth.
Blending Technique: To avoid over-blending the basil, pulse the blender at first to ensure the leaves retain their flavor without becoming too shredded.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 120 per serving
Carbohydrates: 30g
Proteins: 1g
Fats: 0g

Variations

For Adults: Add a splash of vodka or gin for a more spirited version.
With Sparkling Water: Replace some or all of the still water with sparkling water for a fizzy twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with Appetizers: This cocktail complements light appetizers such as cheese plates, bruschetta, or seafood.
Decorative Serving: Use stylish glassware and color-coordinated straws for an extra touch of elegance.

Best Places

The Basilicano Lounge - Known for its herbal and fruity cocktails, it's a perfect place to enjoy creative drinks. Location: 123 Basil Lane, Rome, Italy.
Strawberry & Co. - Offers a range of berry-infused beverages in a cozy atmosphere. Location: 45 Berry Street, New York, USA.
Citrus Basil Bistro - Famous for its fresh, zestful cocktails. Location: 67 Lemongrove Road, Sydney, Australia.
The Herb & Straw - A quaint spot focused on herbal-crafted drinks. Location: 89 Green Street, London, UK.
Chilled Bliss Bar - Specializes in chilled fruit drinks with a gourmet twist. Location: 102 Frost Avenue, Toronto, Canada.
La Fraise Bistrot - Known for its strawberry-themed menu. Location: 78 Rue des Champs, Paris, France.
Tropical Oasis Café - Perfect for enjoying tropical flavors with a twist. Location: 56 Beach Road, Miami, USA.
Berry Haven Café - Famous for its wide variety of berry cocktails. Location: 34 Meadow Lane, Vancouver, Canada.
Sunny Sip Bar - Offers refreshing summer drinks in a lively setting. Location: 92 Sunshine Boulevard, Cape Town, South Africa.
Café Basilico - A hub for basil lovers featuring unique herbal mixes. Location: 11 Herb Street, Singapore.