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Refreshing Strawberry Basil Lemonade Mocktail Pitcher

strawberry basil lemonade mocktail - featured image

A simple, fresh, and delicious strawberry basil lemonade mocktail that’s perfect for summer parties. This crowd-pleasing drink combines muddled strawberries, fresh basil, lemon juice, and sparkling water for a cool, crisp, and herbaceous refreshment.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1012 fresh basil leaves
  • 4 large lemons, juiced (about 1 cup lemon juice)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 4 cups cold water
  • 2 cups sparkling water
  • Ice cubes, for serving
  • Lemon slices and extra basil sprigs, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Place the sliced strawberries and basil leaves into a large pitcher.
  2. Use a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon to gently press down and bruise them together for about 2 minutes, releasing the juices and oils without pulverizing.
  3. Add the granulated sugar and freshly squeezed lemon juice to the pitcher and stir well to dissolve the sugar completely.
  4. Add 4 cups of cold water and stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  5. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. A 15-minute chill is acceptable but less flavorful.
  6. Just before serving, pour in 2 cups of sparkling water and stir lightly to keep the fizz.
  7. Add plenty of ice cubes to keep the mocktail cold and refreshing.
  8. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh basil sprigs, then pour into glasses and serve immediately.

Notes

Do not over-muddle to avoid a pulpy texture. Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor. Stir sparkling water gently to preserve fizz. Chill well for deeper flavor. Store lemonade base without sparkling water and ice in the fridge up to 2 days. Adjust sugar to taste or substitute with honey, agave, or natural sweeteners.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry basil lemonade, mocktail, summer drink, refreshing beverage, non-alcoholic cocktail, party drink, basil lemonade