“`html
Imagine sipping something sweet, zesty, and just the right amount of herby on a warm afternoon—yep, that’s this Strawberry Basil Lemonade. It’s my go-to for everything from picnics to playdates, and it always gets rave reviews. Plus, it’s stunning in a pitcher—and we love a pretty drink moment, don’t we?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This one brings me back to summer weekends when my kids would set up a “lemonade stand” in the driveway—but this version is the grown-up twist I make for my girlfriends now. It’s fresh, fun, and ridiculously refreshing.
- Bursting with natural strawberry sweetness
- Fresh basil adds a sophisticated twist
- Simple to make ahead for parties
- Easily adjustable for kids or cocktails
Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 6 lemons)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
- 3/4 cup sugar (or to taste)
- 4 cups cold water
- Ice, for serving
- Sliced lemons and strawberries, for garnish (optional)
Pro Tips
- Use ripe strawberries for the sweetest flavor—frozen works too in a pinch!
- Roll your lemons before juicing to get the most juice out with less effort.
- Swap sugar for honey or agave if you’d like a naturally sweetened version.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a blender, combine strawberries, lemon juice, and sugar. Blend until smooth.
- In a large pitcher, add the basil leaves and gently muddle them with a wooden spoon to release flavor.
- Strain the strawberry-lemon mixture through a fine mesh sieve into the pitcher to remove pulp and seeds.
- Pour in the cold water and stir to combine.
- Serve over ice with optional lemon slices, strawberry halves, and a few basil leaves for garnish.
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Don’t skip straining—it ensures a smooth, silky lemonade without any bits.
- Make the base ahead and add ice right before serving so it doesn’t get watered down.
- Want to make it sparkle? Swap 1–2 cups of water with soda water just before serving.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Add vodka or gin for an adult twist (about 1.5 oz per glass does the trick).
- Make it a frozen treat by blending with ice for a lemonade slushie.
- Infuse with mint instead of basil for a cooling variation.
- Serve in mason jars with colorful paper straws for a party-ready presentation.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice really makes a difference here, but in a pinch, bottled will work—just use one that’s 100% juice and not from concentrate for best flavor.
How long does it keep in the fridge?
This lemonade will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Shake or stir before serving as some settling may occur.
Can I make it sugar-free?
Yes! Try stevia, monkfruit sweetener, or your preferred sugar alternative. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 6 lemons)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 3/4 cup sugar (or to taste)
- 4 cups cold water
- Ice, for serving
- Sliced lemons and strawberries, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Blend strawberries, lemon juice, and sugar until smooth.
- Muddle basil leaves in a pitcher to release flavor.
- Strain the strawberry mixture into the pitcher.
- Add water and stir well. Serve cold over ice with garnishes.
Nutrition: ~100 calories per serving
If you try this fruity refresher, let me know in the comments or tag me on Instagram @TheKitchensAid! I’d love to see your sweet sips 💛
“`
