Juicy Strawberry Basil Refresher for Summer Bliss
This Strawberry Basil Refresher is a delightful, non-alcoholic mocktail bursting with summer flavors, perfect for gatherings or unwinding.
Equipment
- pot
- pitcher
- fine-mesh sieve
Ingredients
For the Syrup
- 1 cup sugar Can be replaced with agave syrup for a lower glycemic index option.
- 1/2 cup honey Maple syrup can substitute for honey for a vegan option.
- 2 cups strawberries Fresh or frozen strawberries work well; ensure frozen strawberries are thawed before use.
- 2 cups water Swap for sparkling water to add a fizzy touch.
- 1 cup fresh basil If desired, mint can be substituted for a different herbaceous note.
For the Drink
- 1/2 cup lemon juice Freshly squeezed lemon juice is preferred for the best taste.
- 1/4 cup lime juice You can substitute with extra lemon juice if lime isn’t available.
- fresh basil leaves Adds visual appeal and aromatic freshness when served.
Instructions
Making the Syrup
- In a pot, mix together sugar, honey, and 2 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar completely.
- Once boiling, add sliced strawberries to the pot. Let them boil until they soften, about 5 minutes, and release their sweet juices.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
- After cooling, strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve to remove solids, pressing down to extract every drop.
- In a large pitcher, combine the strained syrup with the remaining 10 cups of water, along with the lemon and lime juices. Stir well.
Serving the Drink
- Pour the drink over ice into tall glasses, garnishing with fresh basil leaves and a slice of lemon.
- Optional: Add a splash of sparkling water at serving time for a fizzy twist.
Notes
Store any leftover syrup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week or freeze for longer storage. To enjoy, thaw frozen syrup in the refrigerator overnight.