If you’re in search of a cocktail that perfectly captures the spirit of summer, look no further than the Strawberry Basil Smash. This vibrant, refreshingly tangy drink combines juicy strawberries, fragrant basil, zesty lemon, and a splash of gin or vodka for a burst of flavor that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re entertaining friends or relaxing solo, the Strawberry Basil Smash makes happy hour feel a bit more special every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Fresh Strawberry Basil Smash:
- 4 fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
- 4–5 fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon honey or simple syrup
- 1 ounce fresh lemon juice
- 2 ounces gin or vodka
- Ice cubes
- Club soda (to top)
- Fresh strawberries and basil sprigs for garnish
How to Make Strawberry Basil Smash
Step 1: Muddle Strawberries and Basil
Place the hulled and sliced fresh strawberries and basil leaves into a sturdy glass or cocktail shaker along with your chosen honey or simple syrup. Using a muddler or the back of a spoon, gently mash them together until the strawberries are well broken down and the basil releases its fragrant oils. Don’t rush this step—it’s the secret to unlocking all those natural flavors!
Step 2: Add Lemon Juice and Gin (or Vodka)
Pour in the fresh lemon juice and your spirit of choice, either gin for a botanical punch or vodka for a cleaner, subtler base. Each option brings its own character to the Strawberry Basil Smash, so feel free to experiment until you find your personal favorite.
Step 3: Shake Until Chilled
Add a generous handful of ice to the shaker, then seal it tightly. Give everything a hearty shake for around 15 seconds—this chills the drink, thoroughly combines all the flavors, and ensures each sip is frosty and delicious.
Step 4: Strain and Top with Club Soda
Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice cubes, leaving behind any strawberry and basil solids (unless you love a rustic texture, in which case pour it all in!). Gently top your creation with refreshing club soda, then go in with a gentle stir to blend just before serving.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish your homemade Strawberry Basil Smash with a halved strawberry and a lively basil sprig perched on the glass. It’s the sort of flourish that turns an everyday cocktail into a showstopper.
How to Serve Strawberry Basil Smash
Garnishes
The right garnish is more than just a pretty accent—it’s a celebration of the delicious flavors inside your glass! For the Strawberry Basil Smash, a slice of juicy strawberry and a fresh, vibrant basil sprig really pack a punch both visually and aromatically. You can even try a twist of lemon peel if you want another layer of elegance.
Side Dishes
Balance your Strawberry Basil Smash with light bites that let the cocktail shine, such as a plate of crisp crostini with goat cheese, summer salads, or a tray of prosciutto and fresh mozzarella. These easy pairings help enhance the drink’s sweet-herbal flavors without overpowering your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your Strawberry Basil Smash truly unforgettable by serving it in mason jars for a cozy backyard vibe or in elegant coupe glasses for a touch of sophistication. Feeling playful? Try freezing basil leaves or sliced strawberries into your ice cubes for a delightful surprise as the ice melts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve mixed up a little too much, no worries! Seal any leftover Strawberry Basil Smash base (minus the club soda) in a glass jar or airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add fresh ice and club soda when you’re ready for another round.
Freezing
Want to take the party to the next level? Pour the muddled strawberry-basil mixture into ice cube trays and freeze. When you’re ready for a fast Strawberry Basil Smash, simply shake with your spirit, add club soda, and enjoy a frosty take that’s packed with flavor.
Reheating
This delightful cocktail is always meant to be enjoyed nice and cold, so there’s no need to reheat! Instead, focus on keeping those ingredients chilled, and give everything a brisk shake or stir before topping with club soda when serving leftovers.
FAQs
Can I make a non-alcoholic Strawberry Basil Smash?
Absolutely! Just skip the gin or vodka, and top up with extra club soda or a splash of lemonade for a bubbly, family-friendly refresher that keeps all the charm of the original cocktail.
What’s the best type Drink
A floral, citrus-forward gin will bring out the brightness of the strawberries and basil. London Dry gin works well, but for even more dimension, try a botanical or berry-infused variety for your Strawberry Basil Smash.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Frozen strawberries make a convenient, tasty substitute—just let them thaw and drain first for easier muddling. They’ll still provide a delicious burst of flavor, though fresh berries shine brightest in this drink.
What can I use instead of basil?
If basil isn’t your thing (or you just ran out), fresh mint or even a few sprigs of thyme can lend a different but equally lively herbal twist to your Strawberry Basil Smash.
How can I make this cocktail in a big batch for parties?
Muddle the strawberries, basil, honey, and lemon juice in a pitcher instead of individual glasses, then stir in your spirit and refrigerate. Serve over ice, topping each glass with club soda and garnish just before enjoying. It’s party-perfect!
Final Thoughts
Once you experience how brilliantly juicy and aromatic a Strawberry Basil Smash can be, it’ll quickly become your go-to signature drink whenever strawberries are in season. Gather your ingredients and treat yourself—you deserve this burst of summer in a glass!
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Strawberry Basil Smash Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Drink
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the refreshing flavors of summer with this delightful Strawberry Basil Smash cocktail. Made with fresh strawberries, basil, and a hint of citrus, this drink is perfect for warm days or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Fresh Strawberry Basil Smash:
- 4 fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
- 4–5 fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon honey or simple syrup
- 1 ounce fresh lemon juice
- 2 ounces gin or vodka
- Ice cubes
- Club soda (to top)
- Fresh strawberries and basil sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Muddle: In a cocktail shaker or sturdy glass, muddle the sliced strawberries and basil leaves with the honey or simple syrup until well broken down.
- Add Ingredients: Add the lemon juice and gin (or vodka), then fill the shaker with ice.
- Shake: Shake well for about 15 seconds until chilled.
- Strain and Serve: Strain into an ice-filled glass and top with club soda. Gently stir and garnish with a strawberry and a basil sprig before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the gin with vodka for a milder flavor.
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the liquor and add more club soda or a splash of lemonade.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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