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Refreshing Strawberry Basil Lemonade

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A quick and easy homemade strawberry basil lemonade that combines fresh strawberries, fragrant basil, and zesty lemon for a refreshing drink perfect for hot days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (about 300g)
  • 15–20 fresh basil leaves, washed and gently torn
  • 1 cup fresh lemon juice (from 4–5 medium lemons, about 240 ml)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (about 150g), adjust to taste
  • 4 cups cold water (about 950 ml)
  • Ice cubes, plenty for serving
  • Optional: splash of sparkling water for fizz
  • Optional: lemon slices and basil sprigs for garnish

Instructions

  1. Wash, hull, and slice about 2 cups (300g) of fresh strawberries.
  2. Using a citrus juicer, squeeze juice from 4-5 medium lemons to get about 1 cup (240 ml) of fresh lemon juice, removing any seeds.
  3. In a small saucepan, combine 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar with 1 cup (240 ml) water. Heat gently over medium, stirring until sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  4. Add the sliced strawberries and torn basil leaves (15-20 leaves) into a blender. Pour in about 1/2 cup (120 ml) water to help blend smoothly. Pulse until you get a nice, even puree without over-processing the basil.
  5. In a large pitcher, mix the freshly squeezed lemon juice, cooled simple syrup, and the strawberry-basil puree. Add 3 cups (720 ml) cold water and stir well to combine. Taste and adjust sweetness or dilution by adding more water or sugar syrup if needed.
  6. Refrigerate the lemonade for at least 30 minutes to let flavors marry.
  7. Serve over plenty of ice cubes, garnished with lemon slices and basil sprigs if desired.

Notes

For a smoother drink, strain the mixture through a fine sieve before chilling to remove pulp and seeds. Avoid blending basil too long to prevent bitterness. Adjust sweetness and tartness after mixing. Use organic lemons and basil for best flavor. Frozen strawberries can be used if thawed first. Mint can substitute basil. Add sparkling water before serving for fizz.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry basil lemonade, homemade lemonade, refreshing drink, summer beverage, easy lemonade recipe, basil lemonade, strawberry drink

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/refreshing-strawberry-basil-lemonade-recipe-easy-homemade-drink-for-hot-days/