Description

A vibrant, refreshing summer cocktail featuring muddled strawberries and basil, balanced with lemon juice and a touch of honey, then topped with club soda for a bubbly finish. Perfect for warm evenings and summer gatherings, this drink is easy to make and can be adapted for mocktails or different spirits.

Ingredients

Scale

4–5 medium fresh strawberries (about 4.2 oz / 120g), hulled and sliced
6–8 large fresh basil leaves
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 0.5 oz / 15ml)
1 tablespoon honey or simple syrup (about 0.5 oz / 15ml; adjust to taste)
2 ounces gin or vodka (about 60ml)
2–3 ounces club soda or sparkling water (about 60-90ml), chilled
Ice cubes, as needed
Extra basil sprig (for garnish)
Strawberry slice or lemon wheel (for garnish)

Instructions

Place sliced strawberries and basil leaves in a cocktail shaker or mason jar. Gently muddle to release juices and basil oils, stopping when berries are juicy and basil is wilted.
Add lemon juice and honey or simple syrup. Stir or shake gently to combine.
Pour in gin or vodka. If making a mocktail, skip the alcohol and add 2 more ounces of club soda instead. Place lid on shaker and shake gently.
Fill a highball or rocks glass with ice cubes. Strain the drink into the glass using a fine mesh strainer for a smooth finish, or pour directly for a pulpy texture.
Top with chilled club soda or sparkling water. Stir gently to combine.
Garnish with a basil sprig and a strawberry slice or lemon wheel. Serve immediately.

Notes

Gently muddle basil to avoid bitterness. Taste and adjust sweetener based on strawberry ripeness. For a vegan version, use agave syrup. Mocktail option: skip alcohol and add more club soda or lemonade. Chill glass before serving for extra refreshment. Prep fruit and basil ahead for parties. Large ice cubes help prevent dilution.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Drinks
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cocktail (about 8-
Calories: 160
Sugar: 16
Sodium: 10
Carbohydrates: 21
Fiber: 2
Protein: 1

Keywords: strawberry basil smash, summer cocktail, easy drink, gin cocktail, vodka cocktail, fresh strawberries, basil cocktail, mocktail, party drink, refreshing cocktail