Since July has greeted us with ultra oppressive humidity (my favorite 🙃), I have been having even more of a hankering for a refreshing sparkling drink that’s not water, but also not alcohol. Enter: the strawberry basil refresher, with a little dose of honey. It’s so delicious! And if you love the savory taste of basil like me, you’ll love this flavorful drink.

This recipe is stupendously easy. You’re going to need a handful of strawberries (fresh), a generous clipping of fresh basil, a lime, and sparkling water. Oh! And don’t forget the kicker, honey. I splashed a little in the glass and also dipped the rim in some for an oh-so-sweet surprise at first taste!

Watch me make this recipe on Instagram!

Strawberry Basil Refresher | Serves 2

• 5-6 strawberries, cut into little slices (save some for garnish)

• juice of one lime (save a slice for optional garnish)

• basil (I cut a generous amount from my potted basil plant…about 15 leaves, which includes some for garnish).

• honey (for the rim) and a squirt inside

• 12 oz. sparkling water

The key to getting this flavorful drink right is muddling the basil and strawberries together really well. In a shaker or extra glass, I used a wooden spoon to muddle the strawberries and basil. Then add sparkling water and mix by gently stirring. Add juice of one lime, and a squirt of honey. Before pouring, add honey to the rim of your glasses by squirting some onto a plate and dipping the top of the glasses in. Using a strainer, pour your refresher into two glasses and top with your prettiest garnish! Enjoy in your prettiest summer glassware!

I hope this refresher leaves you feeling refreshed! It’s a great summer cool-down drink, and I would love to know if you give it a try in the comments. Be sure to click on some of my other beverage recipes above, some of which are also mocktails. Cheers!

ciao, xo

Taylor