Living in Texas means we’re no strangers to scorching summers and are always in need of a refreshing cocktail to cool off. That’s why I’m so excited about this Strawberry Basil Mojito. I know adding basil to a cocktail might seem a bit strange, but trust me, it works. The basil isn’t overpowering; it adds a gentle herby note that perfectly complements the sweet strawberries and lime. I love how the flavors come together to create a drink that just screams “patio weather” to me. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking to jazz up your evening wind-down routine, this cocktail will surely hit the spot.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this refreshing twist on a classic mojito cocktail in no time!
In the printable recipe below, you can find a complete list of ingredients and measurements.
- Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are key for the simple syrup and the cocktail. They add a sweet, fruity flavor that’s perfect for summer. You can use frozen strawberries for the syrup but stick to fresh for muddling in the drink.
- Basil: Fresh basil leaves bring a subtle, herbaceous note to the cocktail. If you’re not a fan of basil, you could substitute with mint for a more traditional mojito flavor.
- White Rum: This cocktail’s base is good-quality white rum. For a non-alcoholic version, you could substitute white grape juice or club soda.
- Lime Juice: Always use fresh lime juice for the best flavor. Bottled lime juice will work in a pinch, but the taste won’t be quite as bright.
- Club Soda: This adds the signature fizz to the mojito. You could use sparkling water as an alternative.
- Simple Syrup: We’re making strawberry-infused simple syrup, which adds an extra layer of strawberry flavor. If you’re short on time, you could use simple syrup and just muddle extra strawberries in the glass.
How to Make a Strawberry Basil Mojito
Here are the quick step-by-step instructions with visuals; you can find the full instructions with the exact ingredients in the recipe card below.
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Pro-tip: Making your own strawberry simple syrup is worth the extra effort. It keeps well in the refrigerator for 2 weeks, and the leftover strawberries are also a great treat. They’re fantastic on top of pancakes or waffles, adding fruity sweetness.
1. Prepare Strawberry Simple Syrup: Begin by combining water, sugar, and halved strawberries in a medium saucepan. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, then lower it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the strawberries become tender. Once done, remove it from the heat and let it cool completely. When it’s cooled, strain the syrup through a fine-mesh strainer, making sure to press on the solids to get all that delicious strawberry flavor. Pour your homemade syrup into a bottle or jar using a funnel, if needed, for easy storage.
2. Muddle the Strawberries and Basil: In a highball glass, gently muddle fresh strawberries and basil leaves with a splash of your strawberry simple syrup. Don’t go overboard here – you’re just looking to release the oils from the basil and for the strawberries to release some of their juice.
3. Build the Cocktail: Add the rum and fresh lime juice to the glass after muddling the fruit. Then, fill the glass with ice. Top off the mojito with club soda and gently stir to mix everything together. Garnish with a sprig of basil and a slice of lime.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Make-Ahead: The strawberry simple syrup can be made up to a week in advance, which is perfect for planning ahead. Just whip up a batch, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
How to Store: Keep that strawberry simple syrup in an airtight container or bottle in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks. As for the cocktail itself, it’s best enjoyed fresh. But if you find yourself with leftovers (though I doubt you will!), you can store the mixed drink without the club soda in the fridge for a day or two.
Recipe Tips and Notes
- Adjust the sweetness. The strawberry simple syrup lets you control the sweetness. Add more or less to suit your taste.
- Fresh is best. For the most vibrant flavor, use fresh strawberries and basil. The difference is noticeable!
- Muddle gently. When muddling the basil, be gentle. Over-muddling can release bitter flavors from the herbs.
- Make it a mocktail. For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the rum and add a bit more club soda.
More Summer Cocktail Recipes to Try
Looking for more refreshing summer cocktail recipes? Try these other favorites:
- Frozen Aperol Spritz – A frosty twist on the classic Italian cocktail, this refreshing drink blends Aperol ice cubes with Prosecco for a slushy texture that won’t water down as you enjoy it.
- Aperol Spritz – Nothing says summer quite like an Aperol Spritz. This simple Italian cocktail is a refreshing mix of Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water that’s perfect for hot days.
- Strawberry Pineapple Frosé – This frozen rosé is a perfect summertime drink. It’s light and refreshing and not too sweet.
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Strawberry Basil Mojito
This recipe may contain paid affiliate sales links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please see my full disclaimer policy for details.
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Equipment
- Muddler
Ingredients
Strawberry Simple Syrup
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups strawberries, halved
Strawberry Basil Mojito
- 2 fresh strawberries
- 3 basil leaves
- ½ ounce strawberry simple syrup
- 1 ounce fresh lime juice
- 2 ounces white rum
- club soda
Instructions
Strawberry Simple Syrup
- Add all of the ingredients to a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Let the strawberries simmer until the sugar has dissolved and the strawberries are tender approximately 20 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow it to cool completely.
- Once cool strain the through a fine-mesh strainer making sure to squeeze any excess juice from the strawberries. Transfer the simple syrup into a bottle or jar, using a funnel if needed.
Strawberry Basil Mojito
- Lightly muddle the basil and fresh strawberries with the strawberry simple syrup in a highball (or tall) glass.
- Add the rum, lime juice, and ice to the glass. Top with the club soda and gently stir. Garnish with sprigs of basil and lime wheel.