Name: Strawberry Basil Lemonade
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves; 3/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons); 1/2 cup sugar (or preferred sweetener, to taste); 4 cups cold water; Ice cubes, for serving; Optional: additional basil leaves and sliced strawberries for garnish

Why You’ll Love Strawberry Basil Lemonade Recipe

Strawberry Basil Lemonade offers a unique balance of sweet, tart, and herbal notes that elevate it far beyond ordinary lemonade. It’s made with fresh, simple ingredients and requires minimal effort, yet the result is a drink that feels fancy enough for entertaining. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, barbecue, or just looking for a cooling treat, this lemonade delivers in both taste and presentation. Plus, it can easily be turned into a cocktail with a splash of your favorite spirit.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh strawberries
Fresh basil leaves
Freshly squeezed lemon juice
Water
Sugar (or your preferred sweetener)
Ice cubes

Directions

In a blender, combine the strawberries, fresh basil leaves, lemon juice, and sugar. Blend until smooth.
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher to remove seeds and pulp, if desired.
Add cold water to the pitcher and stir to combine. Adjust sweetness to taste.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve over ice with additional basil leaves and sliced strawberries for garnish, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Sparkling Version: Replace half of the water with sparkling water or club soda for a fizzy twist.
Honey-Sweetened: Use honey or agave instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.
Boozy Option: Add vodka or gin for an adult-friendly version of this drink.
Berry Mix: Mix in raspberries or blueberries for a different fruity flavor.
Frozen Lemonade: Blend all the ingredients with ice for a slushy-style drink.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover lemonade in an airtight pitcher or container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as the ingredients may naturally separate over time. This drink is best served chilled and does not require reheating.

FAQs

How long does homemade strawberry basil lemonade last?

Homemade strawberry basil lemonade can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it in a sealed container to maintain freshness.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well. Thaw them before blending for the best texture and flavor.

Is it necessary to strain the lemonade?

Straining is optional. If you prefer a smoother drink without pulp or seeds, straining is recommended.

Can I make this lemonade ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can make it up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, letting it sit allows the flavors to develop even more.

What type of basil is best?

Sweet basil is the most commonly used type and works best for this recipe. Avoid using Thai or purple basil, as their flavors may be too strong.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can reduce or even omit the sugar if your strawberries are very sweet or if you prefer a tarter drink.

What can I use instead of sugar?

You can use honey, agave syrup, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.

Can I make this into a cocktail?

Yes, adding a splash of vodka, gin, or even sparkling wine can turn this into a refreshing summer cocktail.

Can I freeze this lemonade?

You can freeze it in ice cube trays and blend into a slushy or use the cubes to chill future drinks without diluting them.

How do I make it more tart or more sweet?

Add more lemon juice for tartness or more sugar/sweetener for extra sweetness. Taste as you go to adjust to your preference.

Conclusion

Strawberry Basil Lemonade is a vibrant, refreshing drink that’s simple to make and perfect for summer. Whether you serve it at a picnic, brunch, or just sip it on your porch, its fresh, fruity, and herbaceous flavors are sure to impress. Keep a batch in the fridge for an instant cool-down whenever the sun’s out.