Description
This refreshing Strawberry Basil Lemonade combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries, the tartness of lemon juice, and the aromatic flavor of fresh basil for a deliciously unique summer beverage. Naturally sweetened and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for cooling down on warm days.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 cups cold water
- Ice cubes, for serving
- Lemon slices and extra basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Blend Ingredients: In a blender, combine the strawberries, lemon juice, basil leaves, and sugar. Blend until smooth and the basil is fully incorporated, creating a vibrant and fragrant mixture.
- Strain Mixture: Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a large pitcher to remove seeds and pulp, ensuring a smooth and clear lemonade.
- Add Water: Stir in the cold water until well mixed, balancing the concentrated flavors and diluting the lemonade to the perfect taste.
- Chill: Place the pitcher in the refrigerator and chill the lemonade for at least 1 hour to meld the flavors and serve it cold.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the strawberry basil lemonade over ice cubes and garnish with lemon slices and extra basil leaves if desired, adding a fresh and colorful touch to the presentation.
Notes
- For a sparkling version, substitute half of the cold water with sparkling water for a fizzy twist.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to your taste preferences.
- Use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
- Straining is important for a smooth texture but can be skipped if you prefer a thicker, pulpy lemonade.
