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A glass of lime basil mocktail, perfect as a drink for any occasion, with ice cubes, garnished with fresh basil leaves on a white marble surface, accompanied by limes.

Refreshing Basil Mocktail

This Basil Mocktail recipe offers a refreshing and visually stunning drink that's perfect for any occasion. With fresh basil, lime juice, and a balance of sparkling and tonic water, it's both aromatic and flavourful. The recipe includes easy steps for making a basil mix ahead of time, allowing for quick assembly when entertaining.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Course Drinks
Servings 2 glasses (10-12oz each)

Equipment

  • 1 Good Muddler
  • 1 Shaker
  • 1 Strainer or Sieve. Alternative: If you lack a cocktail strainer, any fine mesh kitchen strainer will do the job.

Ingredients
  

  • A big handful Basil because more is better here.
  • 4 tbsp Sugar but feel free to adjust if you like things sweeter or less so.
  • 4 tbsp Lime Juice Fresh is best
  • 5 oz Sparkling Water to top off the drink and add that lovely fizz
  • 5 oz Tonic Water for a touch of bitterness to balance the sweetness
  • Ice Cubes For serving
  • Lime Slices For that extra zing and presentation points

Instructions
 

  • Muddle up
    Crush the fresh basil with lime juice and sugar. Muddle in a shaker or a robust, large glass —this is where all the flavor magic happens. For unlocking the basil's flavors, the better the muddler, the easier the prep. A strainer helps remove basil leaves from the cocktail, ensuring a smoother drink.
    You can prepare this mix ahead and leave it ready in the fridge, or you can also sieve it and store the basil “syrup” to use later during your party.
  • Combine Your Mocktail
    Ice, Ice Baby: Fill your glass up with ice cubes.
    Layer on Flavors: Pour in your homemade basil and add a few lime slices.
    Fizz It Up: Top with a mix of sparkling water and tonic to your taste. I do 50/50 for a crisp mocktail taste.
  • Mix well
    Preferably use cocktail shaker to mix everything up and get it silky smooth. Alternative: No shaker? No problem. Mix vigorously after adding sparkling water, tonic, and ice.
  • Serve and Enjoy Your Basil Mocktail
    Garnish Galore: Add a sprig of basil or a lime wheel to make it pretty.
    Sip Away: Best enjoyed fresh and cold!