Sparkling Strawberry Basil Lemonade (Print Version)
A refreshing blend of strawberries, basil, and lemon with sparkling lift, ideal for summer sipping.
# Components:
→ Base
01 - 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled
02 - 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
03 - 2 to 3 tablespoons honey or agave syrup
04 - 6 to 8 fresh basil leaves
→ To Finish
05 - 3 cups chilled sparkling water
06 - Ice cubes
07 - Extra basil leaves for garnish
08 - Sliced strawberries for garnish
# Directions:
01 - Combine strawberries, lemon juice, honey or agave syrup, and basil leaves in a blender. Blend until smooth and uniform.
02 - Pass the puréed mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a jug for a smooth consistency, discarding seeds and pulp if preferred.
03 - Fill serving glasses halfway with the strained strawberry-basil mixture, add ice cubes, and top with chilled sparkling water. Stir gently to integrate.
04 - Garnish each glass with extra basil leaves and sliced strawberries. Serve immediately while well chilled.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Easy to make with simple fresh ingredients
- Delivers a perfect balance of sweet tart and herbal notes
- Instantly refreshing on a hot day and looks stunning with minimal effort
- Kid friendly but easily adapted for adults too
02 -
- Full of vitamin C and antioxidants from both berries and lemon
- Naturally sweetened with honey or agave and contains no refined sugar
- Absolutely stunning as a party pitcher drink
03 -
- Choose the freshest sweetest strawberries you can find since they truly make or break this recipe
- Roll lemons on the counter before squeezing to get every drop of juice
- Always taste the puree before adding sparkling water Adjust sweetener or lemon as needed because berry sweetness can vary each time I make it I taste and tweak to get the right tang
- If you want extra basil aroma clap the basil between your hands before garnishing which wakes up its natural oils