Name: Strawberry Basil Lemonade
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves; 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons); 1/2 cup honey or sugar (adjust to taste); 4 cups cold water; Ice cubes, for serving; Lemon slices and extra basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe

Strawberry Basil Lemonade is a refreshing, vibrant beverage that perfectly balances sweet, tart, and herbal flavors. With ripe strawberries, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and the fragrant notes of basil, this drink is a unique twist on classic lemonade—ideal for summer gatherings, garden parties, or simply cooling off on a hot day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a fresh and naturally sweet alternative to store-bought lemonades. The strawberries bring a fruity sweetness, while the basil adds a subtle herbal complexity that elevates the flavor profile. It’s simple to make, visually appealing, and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether served at a family barbecue or enjoyed as a midday refresher, this lemonade is always a hit.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh strawberries
Fresh basil leaves
Freshly squeezed lemon juice
Granulated sugar (or honey/agave for natural sweetness)
Cold water
Ice cubes
Optional: sparkling water for a fizzy version

Directions

In a blender, combine the fresh strawberries, lemon juice, and sugar. Blend until smooth.
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds and pulp (optional, but recommended for a smoother texture).
In a large pitcher, muddle the basil leaves gently to release their flavor.
Pour the strawberry-lemon mixture over the basil.
Add cold water and stir well to combine.
Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as desired.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serve over ice and garnish with additional basil leaves or sliced strawberries, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Preparation time is around 10 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes for chilling. Total time: 40 minutes.

Variations

Sparkling Strawberry Basil Lemonade: Substitute half of the water with sparkling water for a bubbly twist.
Honey-Sweetened Version: Replace granulated sugar with honey or agave syrup for a natural sweetener option.
Frozen Strawberry Basil Lemonade: Blend the mixture with ice for a slushie-like texture.
Alcoholic Twist: Add vodka or gin for an adult version of this refreshing drink.
Mint Variation: Substitute basil with mint for a more traditional herbal flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover lemonade in a sealed pitcher or jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving, as ingredients may settle. Do not freeze, as freezing alters the texture and flavor of the fresh fruit and herbs. This beverage is best served cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

How can I make this lemonade sugar-free?

You can use a sugar substitute such as stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol to make this recipe sugar-free. Adjust the amount according to the brand’s sweetness level.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well. Thaw them slightly before blending to ensure a smooth texture.

Is it necessary to strain the mixture?

Straining is optional but recommended for a smoother, more refined drink, especially if you prefer a pulp-free beverage.

Can I prepare this lemonade in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and stir before serving.

How long does the lemonade stay fresh?

It stays fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, though it is best consumed within 24–48 hours for optimal flavor.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

What’s the best way to muddle basil?

Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently press the basil leaves against the bottom of the pitcher to release their oils without tearing them too much.

Can I add other fruits?

Yes, raspberries or peaches make excellent additions or substitutions for strawberries in this recipe.

Is this lemonade suitable for children?

Yes, this is a non-alcoholic and naturally sweet beverage that children can enjoy.

Can I serve this at a party?

Absolutely. It’s a crowd-pleaser and can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings. Garnish with fresh fruits and herbs for a decorative touch.

Conclusion

Strawberry Basil Lemonade is a delightful beverage that adds a creative and flavorful twist to traditional lemonade. Its combination of fresh ingredients makes it a standout choice for warm-weather occasions or everyday refreshment. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, this drink is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.