Description

A refreshing summer drink combining sweet strawberries, zesty lemons, and fresh basil with natural sweetness. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (about 300g)
10–12 fresh basil leaves
4 medium fresh lemons, juiced (about 1 cup / 240ml lemon juice)
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (85g), adjust to taste
4 cups cold water (1 liter)
Ice cubes (optional)
Lemon slices for garnish (optional)
Extra basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Hull and slice the strawberries, wash and pat dry the basil leaves. Juice the lemons and measure out the honey or maple syrup.
In a blender, combine the sliced strawberries and basil leaves. Pulse until finely pureed and fragrant.
Optional: Pour the puree through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher, pressing with a spoon to remove seeds and pulp for a smooth lemonade base.
Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, and cold water to the pitcher. Stir well until the sweetener dissolves completely. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as desired.
Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve over ice, garnished with lemon slices and fresh basil leaves.

Notes

Use ripe, fresh strawberries for best flavor. Straining the puree is optional but recommended for a smooth texture. Adjust sweetness last to avoid syrupy taste. Can substitute half or all water with sparkling water for fizz. Store in airtight container in fridge up to 3 days; stir before serving. Avoid freezing to preserve basil freshness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Beverage
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (about 8 fl oz
Calories: 70
Sugar: 14
Sodium: 5
Carbohydrates: 18
Fiber: 2
Protein: 1

Keywords: strawberry lemonade, basil lemonade, summer drink, refreshing beverage, natural sweetener, homemade lemonade