Sparkling Strawberry Basil Gin Smash
Recipe Introduction: Get Ready to Smash It!
Fancy a Summer Cocktails that's like sunshine in a glass? Honestly, who doesn't? I'm sharing my Sparkling Strawberry Basil Gin Smash.
It's mega refreshing and guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser. Think Wimbledon vibes, but in your back garden!
A Bit About This Bubbly Beauty
This isn't just any old drink. It is summer cocktail recipes easy . It's a fizzy twist on a classic gin smash.
It has fresh strawberries, fragrant basil, and a kick of gin. All topped off with sparkling wine. Hello, prosecco cocktails summer ! It is perfect for parties, BBQs, or just chilling out.
This recipe is incredibly simple. It takes only ten minutes from start to finish. One cocktail is ready in a flash.
Why You'll Love It
This refreshing summer drinks has a touch of class. Gin and strawberries? It's a match made in heaven. Basil adds a herby twist.
It's bursting with flavor, and it's good for you too! Strawberries are packed with vitamin C. Serve this at your next garden party drinks recipes .
You will be the host with the most. What makes this Strawberry Basil Gin Smash special? It's the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and bubbly.
Each sip is a taste of summer.
Ingredients & Equipment
Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to make this fantastic Sparkling Strawberry Basil Gin Smash! Making summer cocktails has never been easier.
Honestly, you probably have most of this stuff already. It's all about getting the best flavour, innit?
Main Ingredients for Your Strawberry Basil Gin Smash
Okay, so first up, the stars of the show. We're making a Strawberry Basil Gin Smash , so expect these flavour!
- Fresh Strawberries: 6 , hulled (about 90g). Make sure they are ripe and smell amazing. Honestly, the better the strawberry, the better the cocktail.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: 4-5 . Go for bright green, perky leaves. Not the sad, droopy ones at the back of the fridge, yeah?
- Gin: 2 oz (60ml) . Get a good quality gin, it makes all the difference. I love a London Dry in this.
- Fresh Lime Juice: 1 oz (30ml) . Fresh is key here. Bottled just won't cut it. It's gonna turn into easy gin cocktails for a party once everyone get a taste of it.
- Simple Syrup: 0.75 oz (22ml) . Equal parts sugar and water, heated until dissolved, then cooled. Easy peasy.
- Sparkling Wine: 3-4 oz (90-120ml) , chilled. Prosecco or Cava is perfect.
- Ice Cubes: Loads of it!
- Garnish: Strawberry slice and basil sprig. Make it look pretty, yeah?
Seasoning Notes: Level Up Your Cocktail
The simple syrup adds a touch of sweetness. It balances the lime's tartness. For a twist, try basil infused simple syrup.
Basil and strawberry? Oh my gosh! Amazing together. For a gin cocktail recipes summer , it's like sunshine in a glass.
No basil? Mint works in a pinch. Consider adding a dash of elderflower liqueur. If you don't have lime, bottled lime juice can be used, but the flavor won't be as bright.
Equipment: No Fuss, Just Fun
You really don't need a tonne of fancy kit.
- Cocktail Shaker: Get shaking!
- Muddler: For gently squishing those strawberries and basil leaves. Use the back of a wooden spoon if you don't have one.
- Jigger or Measuring Spoons: Accuracy is key.
- Hawthorne Strainer (optional): A tea strainer works too!
- Cocktail Glass: Anything goes! Coupe, Martini, Highball. Whatever you fancy.
Alright, let's dive into making the perfect summer sip! Honestly, nothing beats a refreshing cocktail on a hot day, and my Sparkling Strawberry Basil Gin Smash is pure sunshine in a glass .
I think this recipe is ideal for any garden party drinks recipes .
Sparkling Strawberry Basil Gin Smash: Your New Summer Obsession
This isn't just a drink, it's an experience. This bright and refreshing cocktail screams summer. We're talking fresh strawberries, fragrant basil, and a bubbly kick that'll have you saying "cheers" all day long.
And you know what? It's dead easy to make. If this isn't one of the Summer cocktail recipes easy , then I don't know what is!
Prep Like a Pro: Get Your Mise en Place On
First things first: let's get organized. Proper prep is the key to a stress free cocktail hour.
Essential Mise en Place:
- Wash and hull 6 fresh strawberries (about 90g).
- Grab 4-5 fresh basil leaves .
- Measure out 2 oz (60ml) of good gin and 1 oz (30ml) of fresh lime juice .
- Have 0.75 oz (22ml) of simple syrup ready.
- Ice, obviously!
- 3-4 oz (90-120ml) of chilled sparkling wine .
Time Saving Tip: Make your simple syrup ahead of time! It's just equal parts sugar and water, heated until dissolved. Easy peasy!
Let's Mix It Up: step-by-step
- Muddle: Gently muddle the strawberries and basil in your shaker. Don't go too hard, you don't want it bitter.
- Liquids In: Add the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Ice & Shake: Fill with ice. Shake like you mean it for 15-20 seconds .
- Strain: Double strain into a chilled glass with ice.
- Top It Off: Add that bubbly!
- Garnish: Strawberry slice and basil sprig for the posh look.
Pro Tips for Cocktail Glory
Want to take your Sparkling Strawberry Basil Gin Smash to the next level? Here are a couple of cheeky tips.
Expert Tip: Chill your glass before serving. A frozen glass is a great addition.
Common Mistake: Over shaking. It dilutes the drink, and nobody wants that.
Honestly, this recipe is a game changer. It is the best summer cocktail garnishes . The combination of strawberries, basil, and gin is just divine.
You know? This recipe really gives me the vibes of Gin cocktail recipes summer . Try it out, and let me know what you think! You'll be whipping up these refreshing summer drinks all season long.
Recipe Notes
This Sparkling Strawberry Basil Gin Smash is practically sunshine in a glass! It's one of those summer cocktail recipes easy enough for anyone to master.
Honestly, even my mate Dave, who once set fire to toast, could nail this.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation wise, think garden party chic. I love serving these in coupe glasses feels super fancy! Garnish with a strawberry fan and a big ol' basil sprig.
For sides? Think light bites. Bruschetta is always a winner. Honestly, some crisps works too. As for drinks? Keep it simple.
Maybe a jug of water with lemon slices and mint for the designated drivers. It will be a perfect garden party drinks recipes .
Storage Tips
Right then, let's talk storage. This is best made fresh, innit? But if you must prep ahead, you can muddle the strawberries and basil earlier in the day.
Just keep it covered in the fridge. Don't add the booze or sparkling wine until you're ready to serve, or it'll go all sad and flat.
Freezing? Don't even think about it! It will turn into a slushy mess.
Variations
Want to mix it up? Course you do! For a non-alcoholic summer cocktail recipes , swap the gin for a zero proof gin alternative.
Trust me, they're getting good these days. And use sparkling grape juice instead of wine. Feeling fancy? Try using different berries.
Raspberries give it a lovely tang.
You can also try with different spirits, although is not longer an Strawberry Basil Gin Smash, you can create summer cocktails with Vodka, Rum or Tequila.
Nutrition Basics
Okay, let's be real, this isn't a health smoothie. But it's not terrible either! We're talking around 200 calories a pop.
It is low in fat and protein, but has a fair bit of sugar. Fresh strawberries do add a little dose of vitamin C.
Everything in moderation, yeah?
So there you have it! My notes, tips and tricks on the perfect Sparkling Strawberry Basil Gin Smash. Get mixing! I'm sure you'll enjoy experimenting with your new gin cocktail recipes summer .
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good tips for making the best summer cocktails?
For the ultimate summer cocktail experience, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Chill your glasses beforehand think of it like chilling the pint glass before pouring a pint of Guinness it just makes it better!
Don't over shake the cocktail, and always taste and adjust for sweetness and tartness before adding the sparkling wine. A good gin also really makes a difference.
Can I make this Strawberry Basil Gin Smash ahead of time for a party?
While you can't fully assemble the cocktail ahead of time (the bubbles will go flat!), you can prep the strawberry basil mixture. Muddle the strawberries and basil, then combine with the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup. Store this mixture in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
When ready to serve, shake with ice and top with sparkling wine. Think of it like prepping your mise en place before the guests arrive!
What are some variations I can try with these summer cocktails?
Get creative! If you're not a gin fan, vodka works well. For a raspberry basil variation, substitute raspberries for the strawberries. You can also experiment with different herbs like mint or rosemary. Remember to taste as you go and adjust the other ingredients accordingly.
Like adding gravy to your roast dinner, sometimes the best touch is your own!
How can I make a non-alcoholic version of this summer cocktail?
Creating a "mocktail" version is simple! Substitute the gin with a non-alcoholic gin alternative, which are becoming increasingly popular and easy to find. Instead of sparkling wine, use sparkling grape juice or club soda for the fizz.
You'll get a refreshing and flavorful drink that everyone can enjoy, even if they're not partaking in the sauce.
Is there anything I can substitute for simple syrup in these summer cocktails?
Absolutely! If you're out of simple syrup, honey or agave nectar can be used as substitutes. Just remember they're sweeter than simple syrup, so start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste. Think of it as sweetening your tea everyone has their preference, so add gradually until it's just right.
What's the best way to store leftover ingredients from these summer cocktails?
Fresh strawberries and basil should be stored separately in the refrigerator. Strawberries are best kept unwashed until just before use, and basil can be stored in a glass of water like cut flowers. Simple syrup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
The rest of the ingredients have long shelf lives, so you can always make more whenever you need.
Sparkling Strawberry Basil Gin Smash
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 200 |
|---|---|
| Fat | <1g |
| Fiber | <1g |
