As summer begins to wind down, there are still a few precious weeks left to savor its warmth and sunshine. And what better way to celebrate these lingering summer days than with a glass of the most refreshing basil lemonade? This isn’t just any lemonade—it’s a delightful twist on the classic, blending the zesty brightness of lemons with the herbal sweetness of my homemade basil simple syrup. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a late summer barbecue, or simply enjoying a quiet moment on your porch, this drink is the perfect companion to savor the last tastes of summer.
You’ll LOVE it!
This basil lemonade isn’t just another summer drink; it’s a refreshing escape from the ordinary. The combination of sweet and tangy lemon juice with the aromatic sweetness of basil syrup creates a drink that’s both invigorating and soothing. Perfect for sipping on a hot day, serving at a backyard barbecue, or just enjoying as a personal treat, this drink is sure to become a favorite.
Tips for the Best Basil Lemonade
- Use Fresh Basil: Fresh basil leaves are key to getting that robust, aromatic flavor in your lemonade. If you’re lucky enough to have basil growing in your garden, this is the perfect way to use it.
- Use Fresh-Squeezed Lemon Juice: For the brightest, freshest flavor, always use freshly squeezed lemon juice. Meyer lemons are my favorite because of their unique flavor profile—sweet with just the right amount of tang, making them the perfect choice for this lemonade. Avoid using bottled lemon juice, as it can’t compare to the vibrant taste of fresh lemons.
- Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor, let your lemonade chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Make It a Cocktail: Looking for an adult version? Add a splash of vodka or gin to turn this refreshing drink into a delicious summer cocktail.
Substitutions
While the classic recipe calls for sugar and fresh basil, there are plenty of ways to make this refreshing basil lemonade your own by using substitutions. Whether you’re looking to reduce sugar or try a different herb, here are some options to consider:
1. Sugar Substitutes:
- Honey: For a more natural sweetener, swap the sugar for honey. It adds a slightly floral note that complements the basil beautifully. Use the same amount as you would sugar, but dissolve it in warm water before mixing with the lemon juice.
- Agave Nectar: Agave is a great vegan alternative to honey, offering a milder sweetness. You can use it in equal parts as a sugar substitute. Just like with honey, dissolve it in a bit of warm water first.
- Maple Syrup: For a unique twist, try using maple syrup instead of sugar. It adds a rich, earthy sweetness that pairs surprisingly well with the citrus and basil. Use the same amount as you would sugar.
- Stevia: If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, stevia is a great option. Since it’s much sweeter than sugar, you’ll only need a small amount. Start with a teaspoon and adjust to taste. Remember, you won’t need to heat stevia like sugar, so just mix it directly into the lemon juice.
2. Basil Substitutes:
- Mint: If you don’t have basil on hand or prefer a different herb, mint is a fantastic substitute. It adds a refreshing, cooling effect to the lemonade. Muddle the mint leaves just as you would basil to release their oils.
- Rosemary: For a more earthy and slightly piney flavor, try using rosemary instead of basil. It gives the lemonade a sophisticated twist. Use a smaller amount, as rosemary has a stronger flavor, and muddle the leaves gently.
- Thyme: Thyme offers a subtle, earthy flavor with a hint of citrus that pairs well with lemon. This herb works best if you’re looking for a more subdued, savory note in your lemonade.
- Lemon Verbena: If you want to enhance the lemony flavor without adding more citrus, lemon verbena is an excellent choice. It’s a fragrant herb that brings a fresh, lemony aroma and taste to the drink. Use it just like you would basil—muddle the leaves and add them to the mix.
By experimenting with these substitutions, you can create a version of basil lemonade that suits your taste preferences or dietary needs. Each alternative brings its own unique flavor profile to the table, ensuring that your lemonade remains delicious and refreshing, no matter the combination.
Recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 1 cup Basil Simple Syrup (click here for the recipe or see below)
- 4 cups cold water
- A handful of fresh basil leaves, muddled
- A slice of lemon and a basil sprig for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by juicing your Meyer lemons to get a full cup of that sweet, slightly tangy juice. Set this aside. If you haven’t made your basil simple syrup yet, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.
2. Make the Basil Simple Syrup:
In case you need a quick refresher, here’s how I make my basil simple syrup: Combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, and a generous handful of fresh basil leaves in a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and let the basil steep as it cools. Strain out the basil leaves and transfer your syrup to a bottle or jar for easy use.
3. Muddle the Basil Leaves:
Take a handful of fresh basil leaves and muddle them gently in the bottom of a pitcher. Muddling releases the aromatic oils, giving your lemonade an extra layer of flavor.
4. Mix the Lemonade:
In the pitcher with the muddled basil, add the Meyer lemon juice, basil simple syrup, and cold water. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Pour your basil lemonade into glasses filled with ice. Garnish each glass with a slice of lemon and a fresh sprig of basil for a beautiful presentation.
Try This!
A Perfect Addition to Cocktails
If you’re looking to take your summer gatherings up a notch, this basil lemonade isn’t just a refreshing non-alcoholic drink—it’s also a fantastic base for cocktails. The combination of citrusy Meyer lemon and fragrant basil creates a versatile mixer that pairs beautifully with a variety of spirits. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next cocktail creation:
1. Basil Lemonade Vodka Spritz: Combine equal parts basil lemonade and your favorite vodka in a glass filled with ice. Top with a splash of soda water for a light and bubbly finish. Garnish with a slice of lemon and a sprig of basil for a sophisticated touch.
2. Gin Basil Lemonade: Gin’s botanical flavors blend perfectly with the herbal notes of the basil lemonade. Mix one part gin with two parts basil lemonade, and serve it over ice. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a basil leaf for extra flair.
3. Spiked Basil Lemonade: For a simple and crowd-pleasing option, just add a shot of tequila, rum, or bourbon to your glass of basil lemonade. This easy cocktail lets the flavors of the lemonade shine while adding a bit of a kick.
4. Basil Lemonade Mimosa: For a brunch-worthy cocktail, mix basil lemonade with sparkling wine or prosecco. The bubbles add a festive touch, making it perfect for special occasions or just a relaxing weekend treat.
These cocktail variations are a testament to the versatility of basil lemonade. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or a more robust drink, this basil lemonade can easily be transformed into a delightful cocktail that will impress your guests and elevate your summer entertaining.
Enjoy Every Sip
Making basil lemonade is a simple yet delightful way to bring a touch of gourmet to your summer beverages. With the perfect balance of sweetness, citrus, and herbal notes, this drink will make you feel like you’re sipping summer right from the glass. So next time the temperature rises, reach for your basil simple syrup, and treat yourself to this refreshing twist on a classic lemonade.
Enjoy every sip!
If you liked this, check out this recipe:
Basil Lemonade
Equipment
- 1 lemon juicer
- 1 large pitcher
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 1 cup Basil Simple Syrup see below for my recipe
- 4 cups cold water
- A handful of fresh basil leaves muddled
- A slice of lemon and a basil sprig for garnish
- Glass of Ice
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients:
- Start by juicing your Meyer lemons to get a full cup of that sweet, slightly tangy juice. Set this aside. If you haven’t made your basil simple syrup yet, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.
- Make the Basil Simple Syrup:
- In case you need a quick refresher, here’s how I make my basil simple syrup: Combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, and a generous handful of fresh basil leaves in a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and let the basil steep as it cools. Strain out the basil leaves and transfer your syrup to a bottle or jar for easy use.
- Muddle the Basil Leaves:
- Take a handful of fresh basil leaves and muddle them gently in the bottom of a pitcher. Muddling releases the aromatic oils, giving your lemonade an extra layer of flavor.
- Mix the Lemonade:
- In the pitcher with the muddled basil, add the Meyer lemon juice, basil simple syrup, and cold water. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Pour your basil lemonade into glasses filled with ice. Garnish each glass with a slice of lemon and a fresh sprig of basil for a beautiful presentation.
