Fresh strawberries and aromatic basil elevate classic lemonade into a sophisticated and refreshing summer beverage that's perfect for entertaining or hot afternoon sipping.

Recipe Details
Units:
Prep: 15 Cook: 0
Ingredients
  • 500g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 30ml fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
  • 150g granulated sugar
  • 240ml water for syrup
  • 180ml fresh lemon juice (about 6 lemons)
  • 720ml cold water
  • as needed ice cubes
  • 1 lemon lemon, sliced for garnish
  • 100g strawberry slices for garnish
Instructions
  1. Make the strawberry-basil syrup by combining 150g granulated sugar and 240ml water for syrup in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat.

  2. Add 500g fresh strawberries and 30ml fresh basil leaves to the hot syrup. Muddle gently with a wooden spoon to release flavors. Let steep for 15 minutes.

  3. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing the solids to extract maximum flavor. Discard the solids and let syrup cool to room temperature.

  4. In a large pitcher, combine the cooled strawberry-basil syrup with 180ml fresh lemon juice (about 6 lemons) and 720ml cold water. Stir well to combine.

  5. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more syrup if needed, or dilute with additional water if too sweet.

  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

  7. Serve over as needed ice cubes in glasses garnished with 1 lemon lemon, 100g strawberry slices for garnish, and fresh 30ml fresh basil leaves.

Tips

Lemon Juice: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. Rolling lemons at room temperature before juicing will yield more juice.

Basil Handling: Gently bruise basil leaves before adding to the syrup to release more essential oils. Don't over-muddle as it can make the drink bitter.

Make Ahead: The syrup can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. The complete lemonade is best consumed within 24 hours.

Serving Variations: For adults, add a splash of vodka or gin. For extra sparkle, top with club soda or sparkling water.

Sweetness Adjustment: Start with less syrup and add more to taste, as strawberry sweetness varies by season and variety.