How to Make Homemade Strawberry Basil Lemonade

ByRachael published Updated on
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Looking for a delicious twist on a favorite summer drink? This homemade sparkling strawberry basil lemonade does just the trick! A refreshing drink packed with classic summer flavors, it is a must have for your next summer gathering.

Glass of refreshing strawberry basil lemonade with ice cubes and fresh basil garnish, set on a rustic wooden table with a red and white checkered cloth in the background.

I am a big fan of seltzer water in pretty much any form. Flavored or unflavored, I love a cold glass of bubbly water. It is a great way to cool down, especially on those hot summer days! I had the idea to make a homemade lemonade version, adding in some fresh fruit and herbs from the garden to make it even more delicious.

This easy strawberry lemonade recipe is very simple and straightforward, and is a great way to use up some of that fresh summer produce that you may have growing around your garden. Something about the sweet strawberries combined with the tart lemons makes for a great glass of lemonade. Your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • PERFECT FOR SUMMER EVENTS: Hosting a summer BBQ? Make this lemonade. Trying out a summer picnic with the kids? Make this lemonade. Having brunch with friends? Make this lemonade! Always a crowd pleaser, beautiful, and easy to make ahead.
  • SUMMER FLAVORS: This is the perfect recipe to take advantage of all of that fresh summer produce! This recipe delivers the perfect balance of sweet and tart using real strawberries and fresh-squeezed lemon juice—no artificial flavors needed.
  • CUSTOMIZABLE: I love recipes that I can easily customize, and this one fits the bill! Whether you like it sparkling, lightly sweetened, or with a hint of basil or mint, it’s easy to make it your way. Add herbs, adjust the sugar, or mix in your favorite fruits.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Strawberries: Fresh, in season strawberries will provide the best flavor.
  • Lemons: I used freshly squeezed lemon juice in this recipe. You could also use a bottled organic lemon juice.
  • Sugar: Organic cane sugar works best.
  • Sparkling Water: Use whatever you like! I used San Pellegrino for this recipe.
  • Basil: Fresh basil from the garden- is there anything better? It gets infused into the simple syrup mixture to add flavor.

Tips for Preparing to Make This Recipe

  1. Straining: Straining the lemon juice is optional, but I highly recommend it to get rid of any stray lemon seeds or pulp.
  2. Variations: This recipe could easily accommodate different flavors. Try swapping the strawberry simple syrup for this blackberry simple syrup. Fresh mint would also be a delicious swap.

Be sure to check out the full recipe and ingredient list below!

Step by Step Instructions

  1. Make the simple syrup: In a small saucepan over medium low heat, combine the lemon juice, sliced strawberries and sugar. (*Optional: If using freshly squeezed lemon juice, strain it through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth before adding). Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved, and the mixture has thickened slightly, about 5 minutes.
  2. Remove from heat. Add the basil leaves, allowing the mixture to steep for 10-15 minutes. Strain and allow to cool while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
  3. Fill a large pitcher with ice (about 4 cups).
  4. Pour the simple syrup mixture over the ice. Top with sparkling water and stir well.
  5. Serve over ice with a extra basil leaves and fresh strawberries for garnish. Enjoy!

Recipe FAQs

What kind of basil should I use?

Sweet basil is the most commonly used and pairs beautifully with strawberries! Lemon basil may also be a good option.

Can I make this lemonade ahead of time?

Yes! Make this lemonade up to 1 day in advance and store in the fridge until you are ready to use. Serve over ice with extra garnishes.

How long will this homemade lemonade last in the fridge?

This lemonade stays fresh for about 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Do I have to use sparkling water for this recipe?

No, you can use regular filtered water if you prefer! The lemonade will still be delicious.

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Glass of strawberry basil lemonade with ice and fresh basil garnish, set on a red checkered cloth for a refreshing summer drink.

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Glass of refreshing strawberry basil lemonade with ice cubes and fresh basil garnish, set on a rustic wooden table with a red and white checkered cloth in the background.

Strawberry Basil Lemonade

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  • Author: Rachael
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
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Description

Looking for a delicious twist on a favorite summer drink? This homemade strawberry basil lemonade does just the trick! A refreshing drink packed with classic summer flavors, it is a must have for your next summer gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup sliced strawberries
  • 3/4 cup cane sugar
  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 10–12 basil leaves
  • 3 cups sparkling mineral water

Instructions

  1. Make the simple syrup: In a small saucepan over medium low heat, combine the lemon juice, sliced strawberries and sugar. (*Optional: If using freshly squeezed lemon juice, strain it through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth before adding). Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved, and the mixture has thickened slightly, about 5 minutes.
  2. Remove from heat. Add the basil leaves, allowing the mixture to steep for 10-15 minutes. Strain and allow to cool while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
  3. Fill a large pitcher with ice (about 4 cups).
  4. Pour the simple syrup mixture over the ice. Top with 3 cups of sparkling water and stir well.
  5. Serve over ice with a extra basil leaves and fresh strawberries for garnish. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Straining: This step is optional, but I highly recommend straining the lemon juice to get rid of any stray lemon seeds or pulp.
  • Variations: This recipe could easily accommodate different flavors. Try swapping out the sweet basil for mint!
  • Storage: This lemonade will store well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Drinks
  • Cuisine: American

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rachael

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