Refreshing Strawberry Basil Smash Cocktail (Print View)
Vibrant strawberry basil smash with gin, lemon, and honey, topped with sparkling water for a refreshing sip.
# What You'll Need:
→ Cocktail Base
01 -
6 medium fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
02 -
8 to 10 fresh basil leaves, gently bruised
03 -
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
04 -
1 tablespoon honey syrup (equal parts honey and warm water)
05 -
2 fluid ounces gin, vodka, or tequila
→ Finishing and Garnish
06 -
Ice cubes or crushed ice
07 -
2 fluid ounces sparkling water
08 -
Strawberry slice, for garnish
09 -
Basil sprig, for garnish
# Directions:
01 -
Hull and quarter the strawberries. Wash and gently dry the basil leaves. Juice a fresh lemon to yield 2 tablespoons.
02 -
In a cocktail shaker or sturdy mixing glass, combine strawberries and basil leaves. Gently muddle with a muddler to release flavors without tearing the basil.
03 -
Pour in the honey syrup and fresh lemon juice over the muddled mixture.
04 -
Add 2 fluid ounces of your chosen spirit—gin, vodka, or tequila—to the shaker.
05 -
Add ice cubes or crushed ice to the shaker, secure the lid, and shake vigorously until well-chilled.
06 -
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a rocks glass filled with fresh crushed ice to remove pulp and seeds.
07 -
Top the drink with 2 fluid ounces sparkling water. Garnish with a strawberry slice and a basil sprig. Serve immediately.
# Notes:
01 -
Gently muddling basil preserves its aromatic oils and prevents bitterness.