When it comes to refreshing cocktails, this Blueberry Basil Gin Smash is a must-try. It’s light, vibrant, and filled with fruity, herbaceous flavors that make each sip a delight. Perfect for warm days, brunch gatherings, or simply when you want to unwind with something a little special, this drink brings a delicious blend of juicy blueberries, fresh basil, and crisp gin together in a beautifully balanced cocktail. With its striking color and fresh ingredients, this gin smash is sure to impress!
The secret to this cocktail is in its simplicity. Fresh blueberries are muddled with basil leaves and a touch of lemon juice, releasing a fruity sweetness and aromatic notes that complement the gin perfectly. Topped with soda water for a bit of fizz, the result is a drink that’s light, refreshing, and full of flavor. Plus, it’s easily customizable—you can adjust the sweetness to your taste or experiment with other herbs like mint or rosemary for a fun twist.
This Blueberry Basil Gin Smash is an easy-to-make cocktail that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Serve it in a glass with crushed ice, garnish with fresh basil and blueberries, and you’ll have a cocktail that’s perfect for sipping and savoring. Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1
Ingredients:
• 1/3 cup fresh blueberries
• 4-5 fresh basil leaves
• 1 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 ounce simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 2 ounces gin
• Ice cubes or crushed ice
• Soda water, to top
• Fresh basil and blueberries, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Muddle the Blueberries and Basil: In a cocktail shaker, add the fresh blueberries, basil leaves, and lemon juice. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently mash the ingredients together, releasing the juices and flavors.
2. Add the Gin and Simple Syrup: Pour in the gin and simple syrup. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well for about 15 seconds to chill and mix the ingredients.
3. Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into a glass filled with crushed ice. Top with a splash of soda water for a little fizz.
4. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with a few fresh blueberries and a sprig of basil for a beautiful presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just let them thaw a bit before muddling, as this will help release their juices.
What if I don’t have simple syrup?
You can make your own by combining equal parts sugar and water, then heating until the sugar dissolves. Alternatively, honey or agave syrup can work as a substitute.
What type of gin works best?
A classic gin with a balanced botanical profile, such as London dry gin, works well here. If you prefer a more floral or citrusy gin, feel free to experiment—this recipe is versatile!
Can I make this cocktail without alcohol?
Absolutely! Substitute the gin with extra soda water or tonic water for a refreshing, non-alcoholic version of the drink.
Can I use other herbs?
Yes, mint or rosemary are great alternatives that pair well with blueberries. Each will add its own unique twist to the flavor.
The Blueberry Basil Gin Smash is a wonderfully refreshing cocktail that’s ideal for enjoying on a warm day or sharing with friends. The combination of blueberries, basil, and gin creates a harmonious blend of fruity, herbal, and crisp flavors, while the soda water adds a light effervescence. Perfect for anyone who loves fresh, seasonal cocktails, this drink is as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Cheers!
