Description
Strawberry Basil Lemonade is a refreshing and vibrant summer beverage that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries, the tartness of lemon juice, and the aromatic freshness of basil. Perfect for hot days, this homemade lemonade is naturally sweetened and can be served chilled over ice, garnished with lemon slices and basil leaves for an extra touch of elegance.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruits and Herbs
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- Lemon slices and extra basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Sweetener and Liquids
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 cups cold water
Others
- Ice cubes, for serving
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a blender, add the hulled strawberries, freshly squeezed lemon juice, fresh basil leaves, and granulated sugar. This mixture will form the flavorful base of the lemonade.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend the mixture until it is smooth and the basil leaves are fully incorporated, ensuring an even distribution of flavors throughout the lemonade.
- Strain the Mixture: Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a large pitcher. This step removes the strawberry seeds and any pulp to create a smooth, drinkable texture.
- Mix in Cold Water: Stir in the cold water into the strained mixture until well combined. This dilutes the concentrated blend to a refreshing lemonade consistency.
- Chill: Place the pitcher in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the beverage to become icy cold.
- Serve: Serve the strawberry basil lemonade over ice cubes. Garnish with lemon slices and extra basil leaves for an appealing presentation and an aromatic touch.
Notes
- For a sparkling version, substitute half of the cold water with sparkling water to add fizz.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to your taste preference.
- The lemonade can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for maximum freshness.
