Strawberry Basil Refresher
A vibrant, no-sugar-added refresher blending the natural sweetness of strawberries with the aromatic, peppery notes of fresh basil and a bright squeeze of lemon, topped with sparkling water for ultimate hydration.
For 1 serving
Wash and hull the strawberries, then slice them into quarters or smaller pieces for easier muddling. Gently wash and pat dry the basil leaves.
In a sturdy 12-16 oz glass or a cocktail shaker, combine the sliced strawberries, fresh basil leaves, and the freshly squeezed juice from half a lemon.
Using a muddler, gently press and twist the ingredients together for 30-60 seconds. The goal is to release the juices from the strawberries and the aromatic oils from the basil, but avoid pulverizing the basil too much, which can make it bitter.
Fill the glass generously with ice cubes, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
Pour 1 cup (or to taste) of sparkling water over the muddled fruit and ice.
Stir gently with a spoon to combine all the flavors. Taste and adjust if desired (e.g., add a tiny splash more lemon if you like it tangier).
Garnish with a fresh strawberry slice and a small basil sprig before serving immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't Over-Muddle Basil: While you want to release the basil's oils, over-muddling can bruise the leaves and release bitter chlorophyll. Aim for a gentle press and twist.
- 2Use Ripe Strawberries: The natural sweetness of very ripe strawberries is key since there's no added sugar. Taste your strawberries first!
- 3Chill Your Ingredients: Using chilled strawberries, lemon, and sparkling water will keep your refresher colder longer and prevent ice from melting too quickly.
- 4Adjust Sweetness Naturally: If your strawberries aren't super sweet, consider muddling in a thin slice of orange or a few raspberries for added natural sweetness without sugar.
Adapt it for your goals.
Fruity Twist
Add a few slices of cucumber or a handful of raspberries to the muddle for an extra layer of flavor and color.
Herbal SwapHerbal Swap
Experiment with other fresh herbs like mint or rosemary instead of basil for a different aromatic profile.
Sweetener OptionSweetener Option
For those who prefer a sweeter drink, a tiny drizzle of maple syrup or a dash of stevia can be added during the muddling step.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Strawberries are packed with Vitamin C and other antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage and support immune health.
Hydrating
Made primarily with sparkling water and fresh fruit, this drink is an excellent and delicious way to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Basil contains beneficial compounds like eugenol, which have been studied for their potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
Frequently asked questions
You can muddle the strawberries, basil, and lemon juice a few hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Add ice and sparkling water just before serving to maintain fizziness and freshness.
