Go Back
Refreshing Strawberry Basil Limeade Recipe

Refreshing Strawberry Basil Limeade

Fresh strawberries, lime juice, and basil-infused simple syrup create a colorful, balanced pitcher of homemade limeade. Serve it ice-cold with lime slices, strawberries, and basil sprigs for a memorable summer drink.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Basil Simple Syrup
  • 1/2 cup Granulated sugar
  • 1 cup Water
  • 1/2 cup Fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
Limeade
  • 1 pound, about 3 cups Fresh strawberries, hulled
  • 1/2 cup Granulated sugar
  • 1 cup, about 8-10 medium limes Fresh lime juice
  • 4 cups Cold water
Serving
  • As needed Ice
  • Optional Lime slices, strawberries, and basil sprigs

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Combine the sugar, 1 cup water, and basil leaves in a small saucepan. Warm over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves, but do not allow the mixture to boil vigorously.
  2. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the basil steep in the warm syrup for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain out the basil, then cool the syrup before mixing the limeade.
  3. Puree the hulled strawberries in a blender until smooth. For a clearer, restaurant-style drink, pour the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds.
  4. Add the strawberry puree, basil syrup, fresh lime juice, and 4 cups cold water to a large pitcher. Stir thoroughly so the fruit and syrup are evenly distributed.
  5. Taste the limeade and adjust it with additional water for a lighter drink or a little more sugar if the strawberries and limes are especially tart. Chill thoroughly, then pour over ice and garnish as desired.

Notes

Freshly squeezed lime juice has a brighter, more fragrant flavor than bottled juice. Infuse basil in warm syrup rather than boiling it, since vigorous boiling can dull its flavor and create bitterness. For the clearest drink, strain both the strawberry puree and the finished limeade before chilling.