The Strawberry Kiwi Vodka Smash is bright, juicy, and super easy to sip. Fresh strawberries and kiwi give it a fruity punch, while lime and simple syrup balance the tart and sweet. Vodka keeps it clean and smooth, and a splash of sparkling water makes it extra refreshing. It’s a great choice for warm afternoons, casual hangs, or anytime you want a drink that feels fresh without a lot of effort.
Tasting Notes
This Strawberry Kiwi Vodka Smash is fresh, fruity, and lightly fizzy. Strawberries bring natural sweetness, while kiwi adds a soft tang that’s just a little tropical. The lime keeps things bright and sharp, and the simple syrup smooths it all out. Vodka gives a clean base without changing the flavor of the fruit. Topped with sparkling water, the drink finishes crisp and cool. Each sip is light, slightly sweet, and packed with fruit flavor. It’s the kind of drink that feels refreshing but not too strong, with a nice balance of citrus, berry, and bubbles.
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Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a muddler, shaker or mixing glass, jigger, fine mesh strainer (optional), and bar spoon. A citrus squeezer helps with the lime, and a knife for chopping fruit. Serve it in a double old fashioned or stemless glass that gives room for muddled fruit and ice. A wide straw or long spoon helps stir between sips. Chill your glass ahead of time for a colder finish. This one doesn’t need fancy tools just a few basics to bring out the fresh flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 large strawberries, hulled and chopped
- ½ kiwi, peeled and chopped
- 1 lime wedge
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 2 oz vodka
- Sparkling water, to top
- Garnishes: strawberry, kiwi slice, lime wedge, mint sprig
Instructions
- In a shaker or glass, muddle strawberries, kiwi, and lime wedge until juicy.
- Add simple syrup and vodka.
- Fill with ice and shake to combine and chill.
- Strain or pour everything into a glass over fresh ice.
- Top with sparkling water.
- Garnish with strawberry, kiwi, lime, and mint.
Pro Tips
- Use ripe strawberries and kiwi for the best texture and flavor.
- Chill your glass and ingredients for extra refreshment.
- Muddle fruit well but avoid crushing lime peel too hard it can turn bitter.
- Double strain for a smoother drink; skip it for more texture.
- Adjust syrup based on how sweet your fruit is.
- Use plain or citrus sparkling water for a clean finish.
- Add fresh mint in the shake if you want a herbal note.
When to Serve
This Strawberry Kiwi Vodka Smash is perfect for spring and summer days when you want something fruity and fresh without being too heavy. It’s easy to serve at casual parties, picnics, or backyard dinners. It also fits in with brunch or as a daytime cocktail for warm-weather gatherings. The flavor is light and easy, which makes it a good pick for guests who don’t like strong drinks. It pairs well with light bites, fruit salads, or grilled chicken. Serve it when you want something simple, bright, and refreshing.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Vodka: Tito’s, Absolut, Ketel One, or Smirnoff
- Simple Syrup: Homemade 1:1 sugar-water or store-bought like Monin or Stirrings
- Sparkling Water: LaCroix, Topo Chico, or Polar unflavored or light citrus
- Fruit: Use fresh, ripe strawberries and kiwi (avoid underripe for best texture)
- Mint: Use fresh sprigs, and smack gently before garnishing for aroma
Similar Cocktails
- Vodka Hurricane
- Strawberry Long Island Iced Tea
- Carrot Mule
- Red Velvet Russian
- Strawberry Elderflower Sparkler
Ingredients
- 2 large strawberries hulled and chopped
- ½ kiwi peeled and chopped
- 1 lime wedge
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 2 oz vodka
- Sparkling water to top
- Garnishes: strawberry kiwi slice, lime wedge, mint sprig
Instructions
- In a shaker or glass, muddle strawberries, kiwi, and lime wedge until juicy.
- Add simple syrup and vodka.
- Fill with ice and shake to combine and chill.
- Strain or pour everything into a glass over fresh ice.
- Top with sparkling water.
- Garnish with strawberry, kiwi, lime, and mint.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use ripe fruit for better flavor and easier muddling.
- Double strain if you want a smoother drink with no seeds or pulp.
- Chill the sparkling water beforehand so the drink stays cold longer.
- Swap vodka for gin or white rum if you want to mix it up.