Nothing says summer quite like a glass of chilled lemonade. But when you elevate this classic beverage with the addition of fresh strawberries and aromatic basil, you get Strawberry Basil Lemonade — a delightful mix that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. This drink is not only perfect for quenching your thirst on hot days, but it also adds a colorful flair to any table, making it a fantastic choice for holiday gatherings and family meals. Here’s a closer look at how to whip up this tasty treat, complete with measurements in both U.S. and Metric units.

A Burst of Flavor and Color

Strawberry Basil Lemonade combines the sweet, juicy flavors of strawberries and the refreshing zest of lemonade, enhanced by a hint of basil that brings a surprising and pleasant twist to each sip. The strawberries provide a vibrant red hue, while the basil offers a dash of green — a festive touch for any occasion. This beverage is not only a hit among adults for its sophisticated and refreshing taste but also loved by kids for its sweet and fruity notes.

Simple Ingredients, Easy Preparation

Preparing Strawberry Basil Lemonade is straightforward and doesn’t require any complex ingredients or equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• Strawberries: 1 cup (about 8-10 large strawberries) / 150 grams, hulled and halved
• Fresh basil leaves: 10 leaves, plus extra for garnish
• Lemon juice: 1 cup / 240 mL (juice of about 4-5 medium lemons)
• Water: 4 cups / 960 mL
• Granulated sugar: ¾ cup / 150 grams (adjust to taste)
• Ice cubes: for serving
• Lemon slices and additional strawberries: for garnish (optional)

Equipment:

• Pitcher
• Muddler or wooden spoon
• Fine mesh strainer (optional, if you prefer your lemonade without fruit pulp)

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Muddle the Strawberries and Basil

In a pitcher, combine the strawberries and basil leaves. Use a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon to gently mash the strawberries and basil together, releasing their juices and essential oils.

2. Make the Lemonade Base

In a saucepan over medium heat, dissolve the sugar in 1 cup of water, stirring constantly to create a simple syrup. Once the sugar is fully dissolved, remove from heat and let it cool.

3. Combine and Strain

Add the lemon juice, remaining 3 cups of water, and the cooled simple syrup to the pitcher with the muddled strawberries and basil. Stir well. If you prefer a clearer lemonade, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the fruit and herb pieces. Otherwise, the pulp can add an interesting texture to the drink.

4. Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the lemonade until it’s thoroughly chilled. Serve over ice, garnished with extra basil leaves, lemon slices, and strawberry halves if desired.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Strawberry Basil Lemonade is not just a drink; it’s a versatile addition to any meal or event. Serve it at your next family barbecue, pack it for a picnic, or simply enjoy it at home with your loved ones. Its kid-friendly appeal and beautiful presentation ensure it will be a hit with guests of all ages.

By following this simple recipe, you can create a refreshingly unique beverage that combines the best flavors of summer in one glass. Enjoy this delightful twist on traditional lemonade and make the most out of your summer refreshments!

The post Refreshing Strawberry Basil Lemonade: A Kid-Friendly Favorite appeared first on Bert's Blog.