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
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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more syrup if needed, or dilute with additional water if too sweet.
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Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
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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.