Strawberry Basil Lemonade

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Basil Lemonade is a delightful twist on the classic lemonade. The homemade strawberry-basil simple syrup brings a burst of fruity sweetness with a subtle herbal kick from fresh basil, making each sip feel like a refreshing summer breeze. The freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a tangy, citrusy bite that perfectly balances the syrup’s sweetness. You can choose between still or sparkling water, depending on whether you want a bubbly or smooth version. This mocktail is as versatile as it is delicious, making it a refreshing treat for any time of day.

Ingredients

For The Strawberry-Basil Simple Syrup:

• 2 cups strawberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup loosely packed basil leaves

To Make The Strawberry-Basil Lemonade:

• Strawberry-basil simple syrup (as prepared above)
• Ice
• 1 1/2 cups fresh lemon juice (about 7–9 lemons)
• 1 1/2–2 cups cold water or sparkling water

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For The Strawberry-Basil Simple Syrup:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
2. Once the sugar is dissolved, bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the strawberries to break down and release their juices.
3. Add the basil leaves to the saucepan, and continue simmering for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the basil to infuse its flavor.
4. Remove the syrup from the heat and let it cool for 10-15 minutes.
5. Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve to remove the strawberry solids and basil leaves.
6. Let the syrup cool to room temperature before using. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

To Make The Strawberry-Basil Lemonade:

1. In a large pitcher, combine 1 1/2 cups of fresh lemon juice with 1/2–3/4 cup of the strawberry-basil simple syrup, adjusting to your desired level of sweetness.
2. Add 1 1/2–2 cups of cold water or sparkling water (depending on whether you want a still or fizzy lemonade).
3. Stir to combine, and taste to adjust sweetness or acidity if needed. Add more syrup for sweetness or more lemon juice for tang.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the lemonade over the ice.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or strawberry slices for a decorative touch.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4-6 servings, depending on the size of your glasses. The prep time for the strawberry-basil simple syrup is about 15 minutes, with an additional 5 minutes to assemble the lemonade. If you prepare the syrup ahead of time, the total time for making the lemonade is about 5 minutes.

Variations

• Berry Basil Lemonade: Add other berries like blueberries or raspberries to the syrup for a mixed berry version of this lemonade.
• Citrus Strawberry Basil Lemonade: Add a splash of orange or lime juice for a more complex citrus flavor.
• Sparkling Strawberry Basil Lemonade: Use sparkling water or lemon-lime soda for a fizzy, bubbly version of the lemonade.
• Ginger-Infused Lemonade: Add a little freshly grated ginger to the syrup for a hint of spice that complements the sweet strawberries and basil.

Storage/Reheating

The strawberry-basil simple syrup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you’ve made the lemonade in advance, it’s best served fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Be sure to stir it before serving, as the syrup may settle to the bottom.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the simple syrup?

Yes, frozen strawberries work just as well as fresh in this recipe. They’ll also help to make the syrup extra juicy and flavorful.

Can I make the simple syrup ahead of time?

Yes, the strawberry-basil simple syrup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it easy to prepare the lemonade whenever you need it.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the lemonade?

You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less strawberry-basil syrup, depending on how sweet you like your drink. Start with less syrup and taste as you go.

Can I make this lemonade less sweet?

If you find it too sweet, you can dilute it with more water or add more lemon juice to balance out the sweetness.

Can I use another herb besides basil?

Yes, you can experiment with other herbs like mint or thyme for a different flavor profile. Mint would make for a refreshing variation!

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used if necessary.

Can I make this lemonade without the syrup?

You can skip the strawberry-basil syrup and make a traditional lemonade by just adding mashed strawberries and basil directly into the lemonade, though the flavor might be slightly different.

How long will the lemonade last in the fridge?

The lemonade will last for up to 2-3 days in the fridge, but it’s best enjoyed fresh to preserve its bright flavors.

Can I freeze the lemonade?

You can freeze the lemonade into ice cubes and use them to chill future glasses of lemonade without diluting the drink.

Conclusion

Strawberry Basil Lemonade is the perfect summer drink, combining the sweetness of strawberries, the tang of lemon, and the refreshing flavor of basil. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing beverage that is both sweet and tangy, with a subtle herbal touch that makes it unique. Whether you prefer still or sparkling, this drink is sure to become your go-to for warm weather. The homemade strawberry-basil syrup can be prepared in advance, making it convenient for last-minute gatherings or casual refreshment at home. Enjoy this fresh, delicious mocktail on its own or as a festive addition to any celebration!

Print