A refreshing strawberry basil lemonade made with fresh strawberries, tangy lemon juice, and a fragrant basil-infused simple syrup, perfect for a cool and delightful drink.
Author:Sandra
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Beverage
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Strawberry Basil Lemonade
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup basil-infused simple syrup
2 cups water (still or sparkling)
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Strawberry slices for garnish
Ice cubes
Basil-Infused Simple Syrup
1 cup water
1 cup sugar
A handful of fresh basil leaves
Instructions
Make the basil-infused simple syrup: Combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, and a handful of fresh basil leaves in a saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely, then remove from heat and let it steep for 15 minutes. Strain the syrup to remove the basil leaves and cool it before use.
Muddle the strawberries: In a large pitcher, muddle the fresh sliced strawberries until they release their natural juices, enhancing the flavor of the lemonade.
Add lemon juice and syrup: Pour in 1/2 cup of fresh lemon juice and 1/2 cup of the cooled basil-infused simple syrup into the pitcher. Stir well to combine the ingredients thoroughly.
Combine with water: Add 2 cups of water, either still or sparkling, to the pitcher and mix until everything is evenly combined.
Serve: Fill serving glasses with ice cubes and pour the strawberry basil lemonade over the ice. Garnish each glass with fresh basil leaves and strawberry slices for an attractive and aromatic presentation.
Enjoy: Serve chilled and savor the refreshing and vibrant flavors of this delightful strawberry basil lemonade.
Notes
For a healthier version, reduce the sugar amount when making the simple syrup or substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or agave nectar.
Basil-infused syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week for future use.
Use sparkling water instead of still water for a fizzy twist to the lemonade.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less basil syrup according to your taste preferences.
For a stronger basil flavor, add extra fresh basil leaves as garnish or muddle some with the strawberries.