Description
A bright, herbal, and refreshing summer drink made with fresh strawberries, basil, lemon juice, and raw honey. This simple recipe is ready in minutes and perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled
- 1 large handful fresh basil leaves (about 15–20 leaves)
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (from 4–6 lemons)
- ½ cup raw honey
- 2 cups cold water
- Ice, for serving
- Optional garnish: basil sprigs, lemon wheels, halved strawberries
Instructions
- Wash and hull the strawberries. Tear the basil leaves slightly to release oils.
- Place strawberries and basil in a large pitcher or bowl. Muddle gently with a mortar and pestle or wooden spoon to break down strawberries and release basil juices, leaving some texture.
- Pour in fresh lemon juice and raw honey. Stir vigorously to help the honey dissolve. If honey is thick, warm it slightly first.
- Add cold water and stir well. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
- Add a large handful of ice to chill the mixture.
- Pour over fresh ice in glasses. Garnish with lemon slices and basil sprigs. Serve immediately.
Notes
For a smoother drink, strain through a fine-mesh sieve. To ensure honey dissolves easily, make a honey syrup by mixing honey with a small amount of hot water. Do not over-muddle basil to avoid bitterness. Can be made ahead by storing the base (fruit, basil, lemon, honey) in the fridge for up to 24 hours; add water and ice just before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 9
- Sodium: 2
- Fat: 0.1
- Carbohydrates: 11
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 0.5
Keywords: strawberry lemonade, basil lemonade, raw honey drink, summer recipes, refreshing drinks, healthy lemonade, mocktail, gluten-free, dairy-free