Easy Strawberry Basil Lemonade Recipe
Bursting with the flavors of ripe strawberries, bright lemon, and a fragrant twist of basil, Easy Strawberry Basil Lemonade is an absolute show-stopper for any sunny day. This delightfully refreshing drink gets its charm from farm-fresh ingredients and comes together in a snap, making it both elegant and effortless—a pitcher of pure summer, ready to impress everyone from backyard brunch guests to thirsty kids home from school. Whether you’re indulging solo or sharing with friends, you’ll find yourself craving glass after cheerful glass of this unique, naturally sweetened lemonade!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Easy Strawberry Basil Lemonade is that a handful of simple, fresh ingredients combine to create a drink that feels luxuriously special. Each element adds something unique, whether it’s color, aroma, sweetness, or that signature tang. Gather these and get ready to blend up a summer classic!
- Strawberries (10 large, hulled): These lend both vibrant color and juiciness—be sure they’re ripe for the best flavor!
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice (1 cup): The zingy backbone of lemonade, fresh juice makes all the difference for a bright, lively taste.
- Filtered or sparkling water (6 cups): Sparkling water makes this lemonade extra fizzy and fun, but filtered water keeps it classic.
- Fresh basil leaves (15): Basil brings a sophisticated, aromatic twist that elevates this from ordinary to unforgettable.
- Agave or maple syrup (4 tbsp, optional): Gently sweeten the lemonade to taste—start light and adjust!
- Ice (3 cups): Chill each glass instantly for an incredibly refreshing sip, even in the hottest weather.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Just a hint rounds out the acidity with a lovely background note of warmth.
- Sliced strawberries (5, hulled): A gorgeous garnish that infuses extra berry flavor as it sits.
How to Make Easy Strawberry Basil Lemonade
Step 1: Blend the Base
Start by adding your whole strawberries, fragrant basil leaves, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and water into the pitcher of a high-powered blender or food processor. This is where the magic happens—a good blend ensures all the berry and basil flavors are thoroughly combined and the drink turns that irresistible rosy shade. If you’re after a slushier texture, a few cubes of ice can go in now as well!
Step 2: Strain and Sweeten
Once blended smooth, pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer right into a large pitcher. This step keeps your lemonade silky, removing any seeds or pulp. Now’s your moment to taste and fine-tune: add agave or maple syrup bit by bit, stirring as you go, and don’t forget a dash of vanilla extract for extra depth. Stir in the sliced strawberries, which look beautiful and add little bursts of juicy flavor to every pour.
Step 3: Chill and Serve
Pop your pitcher into the fridge to let the flavors meld for at least 30 minutes (if you can wait!), or pour straight over glasses full of ice for instant refreshment. For a finishing touch, consider a few fresh basil leaves on top, or get creative and freeze some of the mixture in popsicle molds—the ultimate summer treat. Every sip of Easy Strawberry Basil Lemonade tastes like a celebration!
How to Serve Easy Strawberry Basil Lemonade
Garnishes
To make each glass of Easy Strawberry Basil Lemonade a feast for the eyes, try a scattering of freshly sliced strawberries and a few pretty basil leaves perched on the rim or floating right in the glass. For an extra touch of sparkle, toss in a thin lemon wheel or a twist of zest—the colors pop and your guests will be drawn in before the first sip!
Side Dishes
Pair this summery drink with a crisp green salad, savory finger sandwiches, or even lightly sweet pastries like lemon scones or strawberry muffins. The herbal and fruity notes of Easy Strawberry Basil Lemonade beautifully balance lighter fare, and really bring out the best in fresh picnic or brunch spreads.
Creative Ways to Present
For a memorable presentation, serve your lemonade in mason jars with colorful striped straws, or pour into chilled wine glasses for a playful, upscale look. You can even freeze additional strawberry or basil leaves into ice cubes for a charming floating garnish. Hosting a party? Try a self-serve lemonade bar with bowls of extra add-ins like mint, raspberries, or edible flowers—it’s interactive, festive, and oh-so-fun!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any Easy Strawberry Basil Lemonade left, simply cover your pitcher tightly and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. The basil flavor deepens and the lemonade stays vibrant; just give it a good stir before pouring, as some settling can occur.
Freezing
Want to save some for the next sunny day? Pop the lemonade into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room at the top for expansion, and freeze for up to a month. You can also pour it into popsicle molds—it’s a frosty treat that kids and grown-ups adore!
Reheating
While lemonade is generally served chilled, if you’ve frozen it, simply let it thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter for a few hours. Give it another good shake or stir before serving to recombine the flavors and ensure it’s as delicious as freshly made.
FAQs
Can I make Easy Strawberry Basil Lemonade with frozen strawberries?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work just as well and can even make the lemonade a little thicker and frostier. Just let them thaw slightly before blending, and taste for sweetness—sometimes frozen berries need a little extra agave or maple.
What’s the best way to juice lemons for this recipe?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice really is key to that bright, tangy flavor. Use a handheld citrus juicer or a reamer to get the most juice, and always strain out the seeds so your lemonade stays smooth.
Can I make Easy Strawberry Basil Lemonade in advance for a party?
Definitely! It actually tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, as the basil and strawberry flavors have more time to infuse. Just add the ice and garnishes right before serving for the best texture and presentation.
Is there a way to make this recipe sugar-free?
For a naturally sweetened option, simply skip the agave or maple syrup if your strawberries are nice and ripe. You can also use your favorite sugar-free sweetener, tasting as you go so it doesn’t overpower the fruit and herbs.
Can I turn Easy Strawberry Basil Lemonade into a cocktail?
Yes! A splash of vodka, gin, or prosecco transforms this into a gorgeous adults-only drink. Start with one ounce per glass and garnish as you like—it’s perfect for warm-weather celebrations!
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for the ultimate summertime refreshment, do yourself a favor and try Easy Strawberry Basil Lemonade. It’s one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again, and it just might become your new favorite way to savor strawberry season. Cheers to easy sips, fresh flavors, and a little bit of sunshine in every glass!
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Easy Strawberry Basil Lemonade Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Strawberry Basil Lemonade is a refreshing twist on a classic drink. The combination of sweet strawberries, tart lemon, and aromatic basil creates a deliciously unique beverage perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Lemonade:
- 10 fresh large strawberries (hulled)
- 1 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 6 cups filtered or sparkling water
- 15 leaves fresh basil
Optional Sweetener:
- 4 tbsp agave or maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 5 strawberries (hulled & sliced)
- 3 cups ice
Instructions
- Add the Ingredients: Combine whole strawberries, basil leaves, lemon juice, and water in a blender. Blend until smooth.
- Strain the Mixture: Strain the mixture into a pitcher through a fine mesh strainer. Sweeten with agave or maple syrup if desired. Add sliced strawberries.
- Chill and Serve: Chill for 30 minutes or serve over ice. Garnish with basil or freeze into popsicles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Strawberry Basil Lemonade, Summer Drink, Refreshing Beverage
