Strawberry Basil Lemonade is the ultimate refreshing drink for warm days! This delightful beverage combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries, the aromatic touch of fresh basil, and the tangy goodness of freshly squeezed lemons for a perfect thirst-quencher. It’s easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for summer gatherings, picnics, or just a refreshing afternoon at home!
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients for Strawberry Basil Lemonade
- How to Make Strawberry Basil Lemonade
- Tips for Making Strawberry Basil Lemonade
- Make-Ahead Instructions
- Storing Leftovers
- Freezing Strawberry Basil Lemonade
- Reheating Strawberry Basil Lemonade
- Serving Suggestions
- FAQs
- Try these Strawberry Basil Lemonade related recipes next!
- Strawberry Mojito
- Classic Lemonade
- Watermelon Basil Cooler
- Pineapple Basil Punch
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Flavorful. The combination of sweet strawberries and aromatic basil brings an unexpected yet delightful flavor to a classic beverage.
- Homemade Goodness. There’s nothing quite like homemade lemonade – it’s a delightful balance of sweetness and tang, and this recipe takes it to the next level!
- Perfect for Any Occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just enjoying a sunny day at home, this lemonade is the perfect refreshment.
- Great for Kids and Adults. This drink has universal appeal, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike during any gathering!
Ingredients for Strawberry Basil Lemonade
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh Strawberries: Sweet and juicy, these provide the drink’s main flavor.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Adds a fragrant herbal note that beautifully complements the strawberries.
- Fresh Lemons: The essential ingredient for that classic lemonade tang!
- Sugar: Sweetens the lemonade; adjust based on your preference.
- Water: To dilute the mixture and create the perfect drinking consistency.
How to Make Strawberry Basil Lemonade
- Begin by washing the fresh strawberries thoroughly. Remove the stems and slice them in half.
- In a blender, combine the sliced strawberries with fresh basil leaves and a few tablespoons of water. Blend until smooth to create a strawberry-basil puree.
- In a pitcher, combine freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1 cup), sugar (to taste), and the strawberry-basil puree you just made.
- Add about 4 to 5 cups of cold water to the pitcher, stirring well until the sugar is fully dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.
- Taste and adjust the sweetness or tartness as necessary, adding more sugar or lemon juice to your liking.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve over ice, garnished with additional strawberries and basil leaves if desired. Enjoy!
Tips for Making Strawberry Basil Lemonade
- Adjust Sweetness: Starting with a small amount of sugar is wise; you can always add more if you prefer a sweeter lemonade.
- Using Simple Syrup: If you prefer, you can use simple syrup instead of granulated sugar to ensure it’s fully dissolved into the mixture.
- Sparkling Water Variation: For an effervescent twist, substitute some of the still water with sparkling water when serving.
Make-Ahead Instructions
- You can prepare the strawberry-basil puree and lemon juice mixture a day in advance. Just mix it with water before serving.
- Store the mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for maximum freshness.
Storing Leftovers
Leftover strawberry basil lemonade can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavor is best if consumed fresh, but it will keep well in the refrigerator.
Freezing Strawberry Basil Lemonade
- This lemonade can be frozen as popsicles! Pour the mixture into molds and freeze until solid for a refreshing frozen treat.
- Alternatively, you can freeze the strawberry-basil puree separately to use later in drinks or desserts.
Reheating Strawberry Basil Lemonade
- This drink is best served cold, so reheating is not recommended.
- If you need to adjust the sweetness, simply blend or mix in some additional sugar and stir well before serving fresh.
Serving Suggestions
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes! Frozen strawberries can be used, but fresh strawberries provide a brighter flavor.
How can I make it less sweet?
Simply reduce the amount of sugar or add more lemon juice to increase the tartness.
Can I add other fruits?
Absolutely! Feel free to use other berries or fruits like raspberries or blueberries for variation.
How long will it last?
Your homemade strawberry basil lemonade will last in the fridge for about 3 days.
Can I make it without basil?
Yes, you can make it a classic strawberry lemonade by omitting the basil if desired.
