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Refreshing Virgin Strawberry Basil Smash Mocktail

virgin strawberry basil smash mocktail - featured image

A quick and easy homemade summer mocktail combining fresh strawberries, basil, lemon juice, simple syrup, and sparkling water for a refreshing and flavorful drink.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
  • 8 to 10 fresh basil leaves, gently torn
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons simple syrup (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 cup sparkling water, chilled
  • Ice cubes, as needed
  • Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
  • Basil sprigs, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Rinse the strawberries under cold water, hull them, and cut into quarters. Gently rinse basil leaves and tear them into smaller pieces.
  2. Place the strawberries and basil leaves in a mixing glass. Use a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon to gently press and twist them together for 20-30 seconds to release juices and oils without turning the mixture into mush.
  3. Pour in 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and 1 to 2 tablespoons simple syrup. Stir gently to combine all flavors.
  4. Fill the glass halfway with ice cubes or crushed ice to chill the mixture.
  5. Slowly pour 1 cup of chilled sparkling water over the ice. Give the drink a light stir to mix everything but keep the bubbles alive.
  6. Add a lemon slice and a sprig of fresh basil for garnish. Serve immediately for best fizz and freshness.

Notes

Be gentle when muddling basil to avoid bitterness. Use ripe strawberries for best flavor. Keep sparkling water cold to maintain fizz. Adjust sweetness with simple syrup to taste. For a smoother drink, strain the muddled mixture before adding sparkling water. Frozen strawberries can be used if thawed slightly.

Nutrition

Keywords: mocktail, virgin cocktail, strawberry basil drink, summer drink, refreshing beverage, non-alcoholic, easy mocktail