Ingredients
Scale
- 6 fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered (substitute with frozen if out of season)
- 8 fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish (try mint if basil isn’t available)
- 2 ounces gin (I love using a botanical gin for added depth)
- 1 ounce fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- 3/4 ounce simple syrup (adjust to taste; you can make your own by dissolving equal parts sugar and water)
- Club soda or sparkling water, to top
- Ice cubes
- Lemon wheel or strawberry slice, for garnish
Instructions
- Start by gently muddling the strawberries and basil leaves in a sturdy glass or shaker. The goal is to release the juices and aromas without pulverizing the basil into bits. When I was learning from Mama Lou, she always reminded me, “Crush with care, Sofia. You want the flavor, not the mess.”
- Add the gin, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to the muddled mixture. Fill the shaker with ice, then seal and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled. I find that shaking helps marry the flavors beautifully, just like the way Ouma and I would shake up a batch for our family gatherings.
- Fill a rocks glass with fresh ice and strain the cocktail mixture into the glass. Straining helps keep the drink smooth, free from seeds and leaf bits—something Mama Lou was always particular about.
- Top off the drink with club soda or sparkling water for a refreshing fizz. Give it a gentle stir to combine.
- Garnish with a fresh basil leaf and a lemon wheel or a strawberry slice. I love how the garnishes add a little elegance, reminiscent of the care Mama Lou took when presenting her creations to guests.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International