Sit down, relax, have a refreshing drink why not! weekend of Memorial Day is here, the warm weather is upon us, and we all just not deserve? Put your feet up and sip on fruity, bubbly goodness. It is full of spring-y berries, fresh basil, lime juice and sparkling seltzer. Wanting a mocktail? Leave as is, I can vouch for its delicious-ness without spirits. But come 05:00 (or whenever), add a touch of your favorite alcohol for more festive fun.
This drink is quite simple to do, even without any fancy cocktail manufacturing equipment. fresh macerated strawberries are mixed with basil, lime juice, and many selzter. Personally, I like my top drinks and not too strong. So I prefer that to a pint-sized glass. I tried it with rum and vodka were both awesome- but I'm sure bourbon or gin would be great too. It really is just a great cocktail base that can be adapted as desired for your drinking pleasure of the summer. I like to pick up the crushed strawberries and basil having finished drinking with a spoon they are so delicious after dipping a bit, but you can filter this drink if you prefer. The weekend is here. CHEERS!
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 1 large sprig of basil
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 juice lime
- club soda * (between a splash and a cup according to the force you want your drink)
- 2 oz vodka, rum or other liquor.
- ice
- In two pint glasses divide the strawberries and sugar equally. Use the back of a wooden spoon or pestle if you have one, to crush the berries and sugar for about 2 minutes. Let them sit and soak for 5 minutes.
- Add the basil leaves (2-3 sheets per glass) and lime juice (also distributed.) Muddle a little more, releases the flavor of basil leaves and leave to marinate a bit.
- Add the liqueur, if using. Add ice cubes. Fill up with club soda and use a straw or a stirrer to mix the drink together, stirring for about 30 seconds.
- Garnish with a strawberry, lime or basil leaf. Cheers!