Strawberry Basil Smash Cocktail Recipe

Table of Contents

Toggle

Strawberry Basil Smash

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Equipment

• Equipment Needed:
• Cocktail shaker
• Muddler or wooden spoon
• Strainer
• Glass (preferably a rocks glass)

Ingredients

  

• Ingredients
• 2 oz fresh strawberries about 4-5 medium strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 5-6 fresh basil leaves
• 1 oz simple syrup adjust for sweetness; see substitutions below
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 2 oz vodka or gin for a different flavor, try rum
• Club soda to top off
• Ice

Instructions

 

• Method
• Muddle the Strawberries and Basil:
• In a cocktail shaker, add the sliced strawberries and basil leaves. Use a muddler or a wooden spoon to gently crush the strawberries and basil together. This releases the juices from the strawberries and the fragrant oils from the basil. Be careful not to over-muddle; you just want to release the flavors without turning it into a puree.
• Add Syrup and Lemon Juice:
• Pour in the simple syrup and fresh lemon juice. The lemon juice adds a zesty kick, balancing the sweetness of the strawberries.
• Shake It Up:
• Fill the shaker with ice and add the vodka or gin. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This chills the mixture and helps blend all the flavors.
• Strain into Glass:
• Using a strainer, pour the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice. If you prefer a smoother drink, double strain to catch any basil bits and strawberry seeds.
• Top Off:
• Add a splash of club soda for a refreshing fizz. Stir gently to combine.
• Garnish and Serve:
• Garnish with a whole strawberry and a basil leaf on top. Enjoy!
• Variations
• Make It Non-Alcoholic: Substitute the vodka or gin with sparkling water or lemon-lime soda for a delicious mocktail.
• Change the Berries: Swap out strawberries for raspberries, blackberries, or blueberries for a different flavor profile.
• Herbal Infusions: Experiment with other herbs like mint or thyme for a unique twist.

Let me show you how to make a refreshing Strawberry Basil Smash cocktail that perfectly balances sweetness and herbal notes. This drink is not only delicious but also versatile, making it great for summer parties, brunches, or just a cozy evening at home. From my own personal experience, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple enough for beginners to whip up.

What to Expect

The Strawberry Basil Smash is a delightful combination of sweet, tart, and herbal flavors. The strawberries provide a fresh sweetness, while the basil adds an aromatic quality. Expect a refreshing drink that’s perfect for sipping on a warm day or impressing guests at your next gathering.

Give this cocktail a try, and from my own personal experience, it’s sure to become a favorite. Let me know how it turns out for you. Cheers.

Quick Meal Facts

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Time to Stand: 5 minutes (to infuse flavors)
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Easy
• Servings: 1 cocktail
• Calories: Approximately 150 calories
• Cost of Ingredients: $5 – $10 (depending on the season and location)
• Equipment Needed:
  • Cocktail shaker
  • Muddler or wooden spoon
  • Strainer
  • Glass (preferably a rocks glass)
  • Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making #strawberrybasilsmash  here

Ingredients

• 2 oz fresh strawberries (about 4-5 medium strawberries, hulled and sliced)
• 5-6 fresh basil leaves
• 1 oz simple syrup (adjust for sweetness; see substitutions below)
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 2 oz vodka or gin (for a different flavor, try rum)
• Club soda (to top off)
• Ice
• Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making #strawberrybasilsmash  here

Method

1. Muddle the Strawberries and Basil:
   • In a cocktail shaker, add the sliced strawberries and basil leaves. Use a muddler or a wooden spoon to gently crush the strawberries and basil together. This releases the juices from the strawberries and the fragrant oils from the basil. Be careful not to over-muddle; you just want to release the flavors without turning it into a puree.
2. Add Syrup and Lemon Juice:
   • Pour in the simple syrup and fresh lemon juice. The lemon juice adds a zesty kick, balancing the sweetness of the strawberries.
3. Shake It Up:
   • Fill the shaker with ice and add the vodka or gin. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This chills the mixture and helps blend all the flavors.
4. Strain into Glass:
   • Using a strainer, pour the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice. If you prefer a smoother drink, double strain to catch any basil bits and strawberry seeds.
5. Top Off:
   • Add a splash of club soda for a refreshing fizz. Stir gently to combine.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with a whole strawberry and a basil leaf on top. Enjoy!

Variations

• Make It Non-Alcoholic: Substitute the vodka or gin with sparkling water or lemon-lime soda for a delicious mocktail.
• Change the Berries: Swap out strawberries for raspberries, blackberries, or blueberries for a different flavor profile.
• Herbal Infusions: Experiment with other herbs like mint or thyme for a unique twist.
• Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making #strawberrybasilsmash  here

Tips and Substitutions

• Simple Syrup: To make simple syrup, combine equal parts sugar and water, heat until the sugar dissolves, and cool before using. You can also substitute with agave syrup or honey for a different sweetness profile.
• Dietary Needs: This cocktail can easily be adjusted for vegan or gluten-free diets. Just ensure that the vodka or gin you choose meets these criteria (most do).
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh strawberries and basil for the best flavor. Frozen strawberries can be used, but the texture may be slightly different.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 150
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Sugar: 10g
• Fat: 0g
• Protein: 0g

Troubleshooting Tips

• Too Sweet? If the cocktail is too sweet, add a splash more lemon juice or club soda to balance it out.
• Basil Flavor Too Strong? Use fewer basil leaves in your first attempt; it can be quite potent.
• Not Enough Strawberry Flavor? Add an extra half strawberry to enhance the taste.