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If you want a refreshing drink with a unique twist, strawberry basil lemonade is the perfect choice.
This simple recipe combines sweet strawberries, fresh basil, and tart lemon juice for a light, flavorful drink that’s perfect for summer, brunch, or a garden party.
Tap to jump right to recipe.Looking for more ideas? Visit your full Strawberry Recipes & Summer Drinks Guide.
Ingredients for Strawberry Basil Lemonade
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 8–10 fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup simple syrup
- 3 cups cold water
- Ice
For another twist, try: Blueberry Lavender Lemonade
How to Make Strawberry Basil Lemonade
Make Simple Syrup
Heat equal parts sugar and water until dissolved. Let cool.
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Muddle Strawberries and Basil
Gently mash strawberries and basil to release flavor.
Mix the Lemonade
In a large pitcher, combine:
- Muddled strawberries and basil
- Lemon juice
- Simple syrup
- Water
Stir well.
Chill and Serve
Add ice and serve cold.
Garnish with fresh strawberries and basil for a pretty presentation.
Tips for Best Flavor
- Use fresh lemon juice (not bottled)
- Don’t over-muddle basil (can turn bitter)
- Adjust sweetness to taste
- Use ripe strawberries for best flavor
You might also like: Rhubarb Lemonade Refreshers
Variations
- Add sparkling water for a fizzy version
- Use honey or agave instead of sugar
- Add mint for extra freshness
- Use frozen strawberries instead of ice
Try this too: Watermelon Lemonade
Storage Tips
- Store in the fridge up to 2 days
- Add ice just before serving
- Keep basil fresh for best flavor
Perfect for Summer
This strawberry basil lemonade is perfect for:
- Spring brunch
- Tea parties
- Garden parties
- Summer gatherings
Serve in clear glasses for a beautiful presentation
- 1 cup fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
- 8 –10 fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup simple syrup see notes
- 3 cups cold water
- Ice
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In a small saucepan, combine equal parts sugar and water. Heat until sugar dissolves, then let cool.
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In a bowl or pitcher, gently mash strawberries and basil to release juices and flavor.
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Add lemon juice, simple syrup, and cold water to the pitcher. Stir well.
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Add ice and serve cold. Garnish with fresh strawberries and basil if desired.
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor
Don’t over-muddle basil (can become bitter)
Adjust sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup
Try sparkling water for a fizzy version
Follow my Summer Drinks board on Pinterest.
