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Strawberry Basil Lemonade

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A refreshing summer drink combining sweet-tart strawberries, fresh lemon juice, and a subtle herbal twist of basil, perfect for cooling down on hot days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pint fresh strawberries (about 12 medium berries)
  • 10–12 fresh basil leaves
  • 4–5 medium fresh lemons (about 1 cup juice)
  • ½ to ¾ cup granulated sugar (100-150g)
  • 4 cups water (1 cup hot water to dissolve sugar, 3 cups cold water to dilute)
  • Optional: lemon zest from 1 lemon
  • Optional: ice cubes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the simple syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup (240ml) of water with ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture is clear. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  2. Puree the strawberries: Rinse and hull the strawberries, then add them to a blender or food processor. Puree until smooth. Pour the puree into a fine mesh sieve over a bowl and press gently with a spoon to remove seeds and pulp, yielding about ¾ to 1 cup of smooth strawberry juice.
  3. Juice the lemons: Roll the lemons on the countertop to soften, cut in half, and juice into a pitcher. If using, grate the lemon zest first and add it now.
  4. Combine ingredients: Add the strawberry juice and cooled simple syrup to the pitcher with lemon juice. Stir to combine.
  5. Add basil and water: Gently bruise the basil leaves by pressing them between your palms or with the back of a spoon, then add to the pitcher. Pour in 3 cups (720ml) of cold water, stir well, and taste. Adjust sweetness or acidity by adding more sugar or lemon juice as needed.
  6. Chill and serve: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Serve over ice, garnish with fresh basil leaves or lemon slices if desired.

Notes

Start with less sugar and adjust sweetness after tasting. Bruise basil leaves gently to release oils without bitterness. Strain strawberry puree for a smooth texture. Refrigerate at least 1 hour for best flavor. Can substitute sparkling water for cold water for a fizzy version. Remove basil leaves after 24 hours to prevent bitterness.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry lemonade, basil lemonade, summer drink, refreshing beverage, homemade lemonade, fresh strawberry drink

Find it online: https://evabakery.com/strawberry-basil-lemonade-recipe-easy-refreshing-summer-drink-with-simple-ingredients/