Refreshing Frozen Strawberry Basil Lemonade
A cool and refreshing summer drink combining tart lemon, sweet frozen strawberries, and aromatic basil for a perfect icy slush.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 large fresh lemons, juiced (about 1 cup/240 ml lemon juice)
- 2 cups (about 300g) frozen hulled strawberries
- 10 to 12 fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar, or to taste
- 3 cups (720 ml) cold water
- Ice cubes (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Juice 4 large lemons to get about 1 cup (240 ml) of fresh lemon juice. Strain to remove seeds and excess pulp if desired.
- Add 2 cups (300g) frozen strawberries and 10–12 fresh basil leaves to a blender. Pulse until basil is finely chopped and strawberries form a coarse slush, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Avoid over-blending.
- In a large pitcher, combine lemon juice with 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar. Stir vigorously until sugar dissolves completely, about 2–3 minutes. Adjust sweetness if needed.
- Pour 3 cups (720 ml) cold water into the lemon-sugar mixture. Add the strawberry basil slush and stir gently until well combined. Taste and adjust sweetness or water as desired.
- Serve over ice cubes if desired. Garnish with a basil sprig or lemon wheel. Enjoy immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
Freeze strawberries for at least 4 hours before blending to achieve the perfect icy texture. Use Meyer lemons for a sweeter, less acidic flavor. If sugar doesn’t dissolve easily, warm a small amount of water with sugar to make a syrup, then cool before adding. Fresh basil stems can be bitter; strip leaves before blending. For a pulp-free drink, strain the blended mixture before mixing with lemon water. Substitute mint or cilantro for basil for a different herbal twist. Use natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol for a low-calorie version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 25
- Sodium: 5
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 1
Keywords: frozen strawberry basil lemonade, summer drink, refreshing lemonade, frozen lemonade, basil lemonade, strawberry lemonade, easy summer beverage