This iced lemon basil cooler muddles fresh basil with lemon juice and simple syrup, then tops it with cold or sparkling water for a herbaceous, refreshing non-alcoholic drink ready in 5 minutes. Basil is the underdog of the herb world when it comes to cocktails, but one sip of this cooler and you’ll wonder why it isn’t in every drink. The herbal sweetness pairs with lemon in a way that feels both surprising and inevitable. The basil theme continues nicely into our lemon basil pasta if you’re building a whole menu.
Quick answer: Muddle fresh basil with lemon juice and simple syrup, add cold water or sparkling water and ice, then garnish with a basil sprig and lemon slice. Ready in 5 minutes and refreshingly herbal.
Divide the basil leaves between two tall glasses. Gently muddle the basil for about 10 seconds to bruise it and release its aromatic oils. Do not crush or shred the leaves.
Pour 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice into each glass, then add 1.5 tablespoons of simple syrup to each.
Fill each glass three-quarters full with ice cubes.
Top each glass with 6 ounces of cold water or sparkling water. Stir gently to combine.
Garnish each drink with a fresh basil sprig and a lemon slice. Serve immediately with a straw.
Fresh basil is essential for muddling and for the delicate flavor. Dried basil won't muddle and tastes quite different. It's worth buying a fresh bunch.
It works beautifully and adds extra refreshment. Either way is delicious.
Prepare the basil-lemon-syrup mixture in a jar and keep it cold. Add water and ice just before serving to keep the drink fresh and prevent the basil from turning dark.
Comments
Be the first to leave a comment.