Berry Basil Lemonade

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
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Berry Basil Lemonade is a refreshing twist on a classic summer favorite. This vibrant drink combines the tartness of fresh lemons with the sweet, juicy flavors of mixed berries and a hint of aromatic basil for a truly unique thirst-quencher.

Ingredients for Berry Basil Lemonade

Mixed berries bring a natural sweetness and a burst of color. They’re the heart of the drink, so choose ripe, juicy ones for the best flavor. Fresh basil leaves add a herbal note that complements the berries beautifully. Lemon juice provides the essential tartness, balancing the sweetness and refreshing your palate. Granulated sugar sweetens the drink, ensuring it's not too tart. Adjust the sweetness to your liking. Finally, cold water dilutes the concentrate to the perfect sipping consistency.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a fine mesh strainer after blending if you prefer a smoother texture without berry seeds.
  • Adjust the sweetness by tasting before serving; sometimes berries can be more tart than expected.
  • For a fizzy version, replace half of the cold water with sparkling water just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Berry Basil Lemonade with a light summer salad or grilled chicken for a refreshing meal. It’s also great as a stand-alone drink for a picnic or barbecue. Add a splash of gin or vodka for a delightful adult version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen berries?
Yes, frozen berries work well. Just thaw them before blending for best results.
How long will this lemonade keep?
Stored in a sealed container in the fridge, it should last up to 3 days.
Can I substitute the sugar with honey or another sweetener?
Absolutely, honey or agave syrup can be used to taste. Just note the slight flavor change.

Berry Basil Lemonade Recipe Walkthrough

Start by rinsing your 2 cups of fresh mixed berries. If you're using strawberries, hull them first. Toss all the berries into a blender, followed by 1 cup of fresh basil leaves. Blend until the mixture is smooth and vibrant.

Next, pour the berry-basil blend into a large pitcher. Add 1 cup of fresh lemon juice and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Stir the mixture thoroughly until the sugar is completely dissolved. This might take a minute or two, but it's worth it to ensure every sip is sweet and smooth.

Now, gradually pour in 4 cups of cold water, stirring as you go to evenly distribute the flavors. Once mixed, give it a taste. If you find it needs a bit more sweetness, don't hesitate to add more sugar to suit your preference.

Refrigerate the lemonade for at least an hour. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste. When you're ready to serve, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled lemonade over them. For a fancy touch, garnish with fresh basil leaves and a few whole berries.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfectly balanced sweet and tart flavors.
  • Uses fresh, seasonal ingredients.
  • Aromatic basil adds an unexpected but delightful twist.
  • Quick to prepare and ideal for entertaining.

Ingredients

2 cups of fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
1 cup of fresh basil leaves
1 cup of fresh lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
1 cup of granulated sugar
4 cups of cold water
Ice cubes as needed

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Rinse and hull the berries, then place them in a blender. Add the basil leaves and blend until smooth.
2. In a large pitcher, combine the blended berry-basil mixture with lemon juice and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Slowly add the cold water, stirring continuously until well mixed.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more sugar if desired.
5. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld together.
6. Serve chilled over ice, garnishing with fresh basil leaves and whole berries if desired.

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