Strawberry Basil Smash Recipe – Sweet & Herbal Sip

Ingredients (for 1 serving):

• 3–4 fresh strawberries (plus more for garnish)

• 4–6 fresh basil leaves (plus extra for garnish)

• ½ oz fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)

• ½ oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)

• 2 oz gin or vodka (your choice)

• Ice (for shaking and serving)

• Splash of club soda or sparkling water (optional)

🛠️ Equipment Needed:

• Muddler or wooden spoon

• Cocktail shaker

• Jigger or measuring tool

• Strainer (fine mesh optional)

• Rocks glass or lowball glass

• Spoon or stirrer

• Citrus juicer or reamer (optional)

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🥄 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Wash your strawberries and basil leaves thoroughly. Slice the strawberries into halves or quarters for easier muddling. Juice the lemon and set it aside.

Step 2: Muddle the Base

In a cocktail shaker, add:

• 3–4 sliced strawberries

• 4–6 basil leaves

• ½ oz fresh lemon juice

• ½ oz simple syrup

Use a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon to gently but firmly press and twist the ingredients together. This releases the strawberry juices and essential basil oils, blending them with the lemon and syrup.

🔍 Tip: Don’t over-muddle the basil; too much force can release bitterness. A gentle crush is enough to extract its aroma.

Step 3: Add Liquor

Add 2 oz of gin or vodka into the muddled mixture, depending on your flavor preference:

• Gin adds botanical complexity.

• Vodka keeps it cleaner and more strawberry-forward.

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Step 4: Add Ice and Shake

Fill the shaker with ice cubes, seal it tightly, and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds. This chills the mixture and further blends the flavors.

Step 5: Strain Into Glass

Fill a rocks glass (or lowball glass) with fresh ice. Strain the shaken mixture into the glass. You can use a fine mesh strainer to remove strawberry seeds and basil bits, or pour it “dirty” with the muddled pieces for a rustic presentation.

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Step 6: (Optional) Top with Soda

For a lighter, slightly fizzy version, top the drink with a splash of club soda or sparkling water. Stir gently to combine.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with:

• A sprig of fresh basil

• A slice or fan of strawberry on the rim or floating on top

• Optional: a thin lemon wheel for extra color and brightness

Serve immediately with a short straw or cocktail stirrer.

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🍋 Tips & Variations:

• Add a few black pepper flakes while muddling for a subtle kick.

• For a mocktail version, skip the alcohol and use lemonade or sparkling water instead.

• Try with honey syrup instead of simple syrup for a richer, floral sweetness.