Strawberry Basil Lemonade Mocktail Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade Strawberry Basil Lemonade Mocktail with this easy alcohol-free recipe. Fresh muddled strawberries and aromatic basil combine with tangy lemonade for a refreshing non-alcoholic drink that's perfect for summer gatherings, brunches, or any time you crave a sophisticated virgin cocktail.

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

10 mins

Cook Time:

Serves:

2 mocktails

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">200g fresh strawberries, hulled and halved</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">15 fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">60ml fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">30ml simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, dissolved)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">300ml sparkling water</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Ice cubes</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Lemon wheels and strawberry slices for garnish</li> </ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size:

🔥 Calories:

🥑 Fat:

🧈 Saturated Fat:

🍞 Carbohydrates:

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Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">Muddler</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Cocktail shaker</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Fine mesh strainer</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Highball glasses</li> </ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> In a cocktail shaker, add the strawberries and 10 basil leaves. Gently muddle them together until the strawberries release their juices and the basil becomes fragrant - about 30 seconds of moderate pressure. Don't over-muddle the basil or it will become bitter; you're looking to release the aromatic oils without shredding the leaves. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> Add the fresh lemon juice and simple syrup to the muddled mixture. Fill the shaker halfway with ice, close tightly, and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds. This not only chills the mixture but also helps to fully incorporate the strawberry flavor throughout the liquid while creating a silky texture. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> Fill two highball glasses with fresh ice cubes. Double strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into the glasses, dividing equally. The straining removes the strawberry seeds and basil fragments while preserving the vibrant color and smooth texture. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Top each glass with approximately 150ml of sparkling water, pouring slowly down the side of the glass to preserve the carbonation. The sparkling water should create a beautiful gradient effect as it mingles with the strawberry mixture. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> Tear the remaining 5 basil leaves in half (tearing rather than cutting prevents the edges from browning) and gently stir them into each drink. The motion of stirring will release more basil aroma while maintaining the fizz of the sparkling water. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> Garnish each glass with a lemon wheel and fresh strawberry slice. For an elevated presentation, lightly clap a basil leaf between your palms to release its oils before floating it on top. Serve immediately while the drink is well-chilled and the carbonation is at its peak. </li> </ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Strawberry Basil Lemonade Mocktail Recipe?

This refreshing mocktail contains fresh strawberries, basil leaves, lemon juice, simple syrup, sparkling water, and ice, garnished with lemon wheels and strawberry slices. All ingredients are fresh and natural, creating a vibrant and flavourful non-alcoholic drink.

How to make Strawberry Basil Lemonade Mocktail Recipe at home?

Learn how to make Strawberry Basil Lemonade Mocktail by muddling fresh strawberries with basil, adding lemon juice and simple syrup, shaking with ice, straining into glasses, topping with sparkling water, and garnishing with fresh strawberries and lemon wheels. This simple 6-step process creates a restaurant-quality mocktail in just 10 minutes.

Why should you tear basil leaves rather than cutting them for mocktails?

Tearing basil leaves prevents browning at the edges while effectively releasing their aromatic oils. When cut with a knife, basil oxidises more quickly and can develop bitter flavours. Tearing by hand ensures maximum freshness and a more pronounced, clean herbal aroma in your drink.

Can I prepare this strawberry mocktail mixture in advance for parties?

Yes, you can prepare the strawberry-basil-lemon base up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate in an airtight container. Add the sparkling water just before serving to maintain carbonation. This makes entertaining stress-free while ensuring your mocktails taste freshly made.

What's the best way to muddle strawberries for maximum flavour extraction?

For maximum flavour, use ripe strawberries and apply moderate pressure with a muddler using a gentle twisting motion for about 30 seconds. This releases juices without making the mixture too pulpy. Avoid over-muddling which can extract bitter compounds from the seeds.

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