Strawberry Basil Cocktail
This Strawberry Basil Cocktail is the perfect drink for summer! It is made with fresh strawberries, aromatic basil, tart lime, tonic water and your favorite gin. It is cool and refreshing, perfect to sip on by the pool on a warm summer afternoon.
After a cool start to the summer here in Maine, it is finally starting to warm up. When the weather is hot, I love making icy cold cocktails to sip on during the evening. I really enjoy light and refreshing drinks like my Cucumber Melon Vodka Cocktail or my Berry Vodka Spritzer.
However, if given the choice between vodka or gin, I have to admit that I am partial to the latter. I really enjoy a Gin and Tonic with fresh squeezed lime and high quality ingredients from time to time. Yesterday, I noticed that my favorite tonic water was on sale at the grocery store, so I stocked up!
Initially, I was going to make my tried and true, standard G & T. However, after trying my hand this summer at different fruity cocktail recipes like Watermelon Martinis and Sangria, I wanted to add a twist to my old standby. 
I just happened to have some beautiful fresh basil growing in a pot on my back deck, as well as some plump, ripe and juicy strawberries. I love combining fresh fruit and herbs, so I knew they would be a delicious addition to Gin and Tonic.
Often times, I muddle the berries and herbs when making cocktails, but I just wanted a hint of strawberry and basil. So, I decided to just add the fruit and herbs and let their flavors infuse in the beverage before drinking it.
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WHAT DO I NEED TO MAKE THE STRAWBERRY BASIL COCKTAIL?
This simple and refreshing drink comes together quickly with just 6 simple ingredients. Here is what you will need:
- Fresh Strawberries
- Lime
- Fresh Basil
- Ice
- High Quality Gin
- Favorite Tonic Water
Other Items Needed:
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HOW DO I MAKE THE STRAWBERRY BASIL COCKTAIL?
STEP 1: ADD STRAWBERRIES AND BASIL TO YOUR FAVORITE GLASS
This is so incredibly simple to make! All you do is rinse and slice two fresh strawberries and add them to a glass. Then, add in two to three basil leaves depending on taste preference.
STEP 2: ADD YOUR FAVORITE GIN AND LET THE BERRIES AND HERBS INFUSE INTO IT
Next, add 2 ounces of your favorite gin (I am a big fan of Hendricks) to the glass. I like to do this about an hour ahead of time to allow the strawberry and basil to infuse into the gin. However, you can skip the wait and the flavors will still come through, they will just be more subtle.
STEP 3: ADD ICE AND TONIC WATER AND ENJOY!
After you have let the strawberries and basil infuse into the gin for a desired amount of time, add ice cubes. Top with 3 to 4 ounces of tonic water, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and a wedge of lime. Then, give it a stir and enjoy!
CAN I USE VODKA INSTEAD OF GIN?
Yes, absolutely, whatever your preference is between the two! I would recommend using a high quality brand for the best taste.
WHAT OTHER FRUIT CAN I USE IN THE STRAWBERRY BASIL COCKTAIL?
There are so many options for fruit that would taste good in this simple adult beverage. I enjoy it with blackberries, blueberries, nectarine or peach slices. They all go great along with the fresh basil. If you are not in the mood for the sweetness from fruit, a few fresh cucumber slices would also be delightful with the basil in the drink.
WHAT IS THE BEST LENGTH OF TIME TO ALLOW THE FLAVORS TO INFUSE?
This is completely based on your preference. I like a lot of flavor, so I wait about an hour. When I am in total planning mode, I have even prepared it the night before to allow the flavors to infuse for 24 hours. However, if yo are looking for just a light flavor, you can enjoy this fresh drink right away!
So Tell Me...
What is your favorite cocktail to drink in warm weather? Do you prefer gin or vodka in your adult beverages? Have you ever infused fruit and herbs in alcohol? Do you prefer subtle flavor or stronger flavors?
Thank you so much for stopping by. As always, I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments section below. Have a great week!
Strawberry Basil Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 Strawberries sliced
- 2 slices Limes
- 2-3 Basil Leaves
- Ice
- 2 oz Gin
- 3-4 oz Tonic Water
Instructions
- Rinse and slice 2 fresh strawberris and add to your favorite glass.
- Add to 2 to 3 fresh basil leaves, depending on preference.
- Add gin to glass with strawberries and basil leaves and allow flavors to infuse for desired length of time.
- Add ice to glass, then top with 3 to 4 ounces of your favorite tonic water.
- Squeeze a slice of lime juice into glass, then add the other slice to the glass.
- Stir drink and enjoy ice cold!
