Refreshing Strawberry Basil Smash Cocktail
A simple, refreshing summer cocktail combining fresh strawberries, basil, lemon juice, vodka, and a splash of club soda for a light, herbaceous drink perfect for slow summer evenings.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 6–8 medium fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 6–8 large fresh basil leaves, washed and gently torn
- 2 ounces vodka
- 1 ounce fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 ounce simple syrup
- 2 ounces club soda or sparkling water
- Ice cubes
- Lemon wheel or strawberry slice for garnish (optional)
- Extra basil sprig for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse strawberries and basil leaves gently under cool water, then pat dry. Hull and quarter the strawberries. Tear the basil leaves into large pieces.
- Place strawberries and basil leaves in a mixing glass or shaker. Use a muddler to gently press and twist to release juices and oils without pulverizing.
- Add vodka, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to the muddled mixture.
- Stir well with a bar spoon or briefly shake if using a cocktail shaker.
- Fill a serving glass with ice cubes to chill.
- Strain the cocktail over the ice in the glass. Straining is optional if you prefer a rustic drink with bits of strawberry and basil.
- Top with club soda or sparkling water and gently stir to combine.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel or strawberry slice and a fresh basil sprig before serving.
Notes
Gently muddle basil and strawberries to avoid bitterness. Use chilled vodka and club soda for a crisp cocktail. Adjust simple syrup to taste. Prepare muddled fruit and basil mix ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours; add liquids and soda just before serving. For a non-alcoholic version, replace vodka with extra club soda or white grape juice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail (about 8-
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 5
- Carbohydrates: 14
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 0.5
Keywords: strawberry basil smash, summer cocktail, refreshing drink, vodka cocktail, easy cocktail recipe, muddled cocktail, basil cocktail