Paul Kushner
The Strawberry Basil Smash is fresh, smooth, and full of flavor without the fuss. Sweet strawberries meet earthy basil for a combo that’s simple but never boring. A splash of citrus and a solid pour of your favorite spirit pull it all together. It’s bright, chilled, and perfect for patio hangs or a quick break from the usual. Muddle, shake, pour it’s that easy. Garnish with a basil leaf or a strawberry slice and you’ve got a drink that looks good and tastes even better. The Strawberry Basil Smash keeps things cool without trying too hard.
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Tasting Notes
The Strawberry Basil Smash is a refreshing, herbaceous cocktail with a sweet and tangy twist. Fresh strawberries and basil create a naturally vibrant and aromatic base, enhanced by a touch of honey and zesty lime. Strawberry vodka deepens the fruity flavor, while a splash of club soda adds a crisp, bubbly finish. Light, flavorful, and beautifully balanced, it’s the perfect garden-party sipper.
Equipment and Glassware
Use a cocktail shaker, muddler, and jigger for mixing. Serve in a rocks glass over fresh ice. A bar spoon helps with the honey, and garnish tongs make finishing touches easy.
Ingredients
- 2 oz strawberry vodka
- ½ oz honey
- ½ oz lime juice
- Handful of fresh strawberries
- 3-4 basil leaves
- Club soda to top
- Strawberry slice and basil leaf for garnish
Instructions
- Muddle: In a cocktail shaker, muddle the strawberries, basil leaves, honey, and lime juice until well broken down.
- Add Vodka & Shake: Pour in the strawberry vodka, add ice, and shake well until chilled.
- Strain: Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top: Add a splash of club soda to taste.
- Garnish: Garnish with a strawberry slice and a fresh basil leaf.
Pro Tips
- Use ripe, in-season strawberries and fresh basil for best results.
- For easier mixing, dissolve the honey in lime juice before muddling.
- Want it sweeter? Add a splash more honey or simple syrup.
- For a stronger drink, reduce or skip the club soda.
When to Serve
The Strawberry Basil Smash is an ideal choice for summer evenings, breezy brunches, or any gathering that calls for a vibrant, berry-forward cocktail. Its balance of sweet strawberries, zesty lime, and fragrant basil creates a refreshing, layered flavor that’s both approachable and delightfully unexpected.
Whether you’re hosting a garden party, celebrating outdoors, or just relaxing with friends on the patio, this cocktail brings a burst of seasonal freshness to every sip. Its colorful presentation and fizzy finish make it a crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes—perfect for adding a splash of flavor and elegance to any warm-weather occasion.
Recommended Brands
- Honey: Use wildflower or local honey for extra character
- Strawberry vodka: Smirnoff Strawberry, Absolut Juice Strawberry, or Veil
- Club soda: Topo Chico, Fever-Tree, or San Pellegrino for crisp fizz
Similar Cocktails
- Honey Rose Coconut Margarita
- Watermelon Bourbon Sour Slush
- Watermelon Gin Fizz
- Watermelon Paloma
- Santorini Sunset
Ingredients
- 2 oz strawberry vodka
- ½ oz honey
- ½ oz lime juice
- Handful of fresh strawberries
- 3–4 basil leaves
- Club soda to top
- Strawberry slice and basil leaf for garnish
Instructions
- Muddle: In a cocktail shaker, muddle the strawberries, basil leaves, honey, and lime juice until well broken down.
- Add Vodka & Shake: Pour in the strawberry vodka, add ice, and shake well until chilled.
- Strain: Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top: Add a splash of club soda to taste.
- Garnish: Garnish with a strawberry slice and a fresh basil leaf.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use a fine mesh strainer if you prefer a smoother drink without pulp.
- Warm the honey slightly for easier mixing.
- Add a dash of balsamic reduction for a gourmet twist.
