Refreshing Strawberry Basil Smash

This strawberry basil smash cocktail brings together the perfect balance of sweet summer berries and aromatic herbs in a refreshing bourbon-based drink. The combination creates a sophisticated yet approachable cocktail that's perfect for warm evenings on the porch or elegant dinner parties.

I first created this cocktail when my garden was overflowing with both strawberries and basil. The unexpected pairing became an instant hit at our summer gatherings and now friends specifically request my strawberry basil smash whenever they visit.

Ingredients

• Fresh strawberries: Bring natural sweetness and vibrant color. Choose ripe berries with deep red color and fragrant aroma
• Fresh basil leaves: Provide an aromatic herbal note that elevates this cocktail. Look for bright green leaves without any brown spots
• Bourbon: Forms the spirited foundation. A quality bourbon with caramel notes works beautifully here
• Simple syrup: Adds balanced sweetness. Making your own ensures the freshest flavor
• Fresh lemon juice: Provides necessary acidity. Always use freshly squeezed for brightest flavor
• Club soda: Adds effervescence and lightens the drink. Select a quality brand without artificial flavors
• Ice: Helps chill and slightly dilute the cocktail to perfect drinking strength

How To Make Strawberry Basil Smash

Muddle the aromatics:

Place diced strawberries and basil leaves in your cocktail shaker. Use a muddler to gently crush them together releasing the essential oils from the basil and juices from the strawberries. Press firmly but avoid pulverizing the ingredients you want to extract flavors not create a paste.

Add the liquid ingredients:

Pour in the bourbon simple syrup and freshly squeezed lemon juice. The ratio here is crucial for balance the bourbon provides strength the syrup sweetness and the lemon brightness.

Shake vigorously:

Fill your shaker with ice cubes then secure the lid tightly. Shake for a full 15 seconds this properly chills the mixture while also diluting it slightly for perfect drinkability. The shaker should become frosty on the outside.

Prepare your glasses:

Fill two lowball glasses with fresh ice. Quality ice makes a difference here large clear cubes will melt more slowly maintaining the drinks integrity.

Strain and finish:

Using a Hawthorne or fine mesh strainer pour the mixture evenly between your prepared glasses. The straining process keeps strawberry seeds and torn basil from interfering with the smooth drinking experience.

Add effervescence:

Top each glass with a splash of club soda approximately 12 ounces per glass. This adds a delightful fizz and opens up the flavors.

Garnish thoughtfully:

Place a fresh strawberry and basil sprig on each glass. These garnishes enhance both visual appeal and aroma as you sip.

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The basil is truly what transforms this cocktail from ordinary to extraordinary. I've experimented with many herbs but keep returning to basil for its perfect complement to strawberries. My grandfather who rarely deviated from his scotch and soda requested a second strawberry basil smash at our last family gathering quite the endorsement from an old school cocktail enthusiast.

Make Ahead Options

While best enjoyed immediately after preparation you can prepare certain components in advance. Muddle the strawberries and basil with the simple syrup and lemon juice up to 2 hours before serving storing the mixture refrigerated. When ready to serve simply add bourbon shake with ice and finish with club soda. This makes entertaining much more manageable while maintaining the cocktails fresh vibrant flavors.

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Ingredient Substitutions

The beauty of this cocktail lies in its adaptability. If bourbon isnt your preference try using vodka for a cleaner profile or white rum for a tropical twist. No fresh strawberries? Frozen work nearly as well just thaw them first. Thai basil can replace sweet basil for a more licorice undertone. For the sweetener agave nectar or honey syrup can stand in for simple syrup each bringing its own character to the drink. When lemons arent available lime juice creates an equally delicious though slightly different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

This strawberry basil smash pairs beautifully with summer appetizers particularly those featuring creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese. The bright acidity cuts through richness making it excellent alongside grilled meats or spicy dishes. For a memorable brunch serve alongside quiche or savory tarts. Consider creating a cocktail station at your next gathering with premuddled strawberry basil mixture and letting guests customize their own drinks perfect for interactive entertaining.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute bourbon with another spirit?

Absolutely! While bourbon gives this cocktail a rich depth, you can use rum, vodka, or gin for different flavor profiles.

→ How do I make simple syrup?

To make simple syrup, combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan. Heat until the sugar dissolves, then let it cool before using.

→ Can this cocktail be made non-alcoholic?

Yes! Replace the bourbon with more club soda or a non-alcoholic spirit for a refreshing mocktail version.

→ What is the best way to muddle strawberries and basil?

Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently press and crush the strawberries and basil, releasing their juices and aromas without pulverizing them.

→ How long does it take to prepare this cocktail?

This cocktail only takes about 5 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for quick and easy entertaining.