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Refreshing Strawberry Basil Smash

A vibrant, ice-cold summer cocktail or mocktail featuring muddled fresh strawberries, aromatic basil, and a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 drink
Course: Beverage, Cocktail, Drinks
Cuisine: American, Summer
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Muddle Base
  • 4 large fresh strawberries hulled and sliced, plus extra for garnish
  • 5 leaves fresh basil plus a sprig for garnish
  • 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 0.5 oz simple syrup or agave nectar
Liquid and Ice
  • 2 oz Gin, Vodka, or White Rum Or substitute 3-4 oz sparkling water for a mocktail
  • 2 cups crushed ice

Equipment

  • Muddler
  • Cocktail Shaker
  • Lowball or Rocks glass
  • Jigger or measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Place the sliced strawberries, fresh basil leaves, lemon juice, and simple syrup into a cocktail shaker or directly into a sturdy lowball glass.
  2. Using a muddler, firmly press and twist the ingredients to extract the strawberry juices and gently bruise the basil leaves.
  3. If making a cocktail, add your chosen spirit (gin, vodka, or rum) to the muddled mixture.
  4. If using a shaker, add a handful of ice cubes, shake vigorously for 10 seconds, and pour the entire contents (do not strain) into a glass.
  5. Fill the glass to the very top with crushed ice, packing it slightly to form a dome.
  6. If making a mocktail, pour sparkling water over the crushed ice to fill the glass.
  7. Garnish with a fresh strawberry half and a sprig of basil. Serve immediately.

Notes

To extract maximum aroma from your basil garnish, give the sprig a gentle slap between your palms before placing it on the drink.