Description
Zesty citrus basil smash mocktail combines refreshing Mediterranean flavors in a glass of pure summer delight. Light herbal notes dance with tangy citrus, creating a sophisticated non-alcoholic drink perfect for warm afternoons and social gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 10 basil leaves (plus more for garnish)
- 1 mandarin (juiced)
- 1/2 lime (juiced)
Sweeteners:
- 1/2 tablespoon (1/2 tbsp) monk fruit sweetener
- 1 tablespoon (1 tbsp) hot water
Finishing Ingredients:
- Citrus sparkling water
- Garnish: mandarin slice
Instructions
- Dissolve monk fruit sweetener in hot water within a cocktail glass, creating a clear sweet base.
- Gently crush fresh basil leaves against the glass wall to release their aromatic oils and herbaceous essence.
- Pour mandarin and lime juices into the glass, allowing the citrus flavors to mingle with the muddled basil.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes to chill and dilute the mixture slightly.
- Pour citrus sparkling water over the top, creating a vibrant, effervescent layer.
- Stir gently to blend all ingredients, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
- Enhance the presentation by garnishing with a fresh basil sprig and a delicate mandarin slice on the rim.
Notes
- Swap monk fruit sweetener with honey or agave for a more natural sweetness profile that complements the citrus and basil flavors.
- Bruise basil leaves gently to release essential oils without turning them bitter, which intensifies the herb’s aromatic qualities in the mocktail.
- Use fresh, seasonal citrus fruits for maximum juice flavor and brightness, ensuring the mocktail tastes vibrant and refreshing.
- Try different sparkling water brands to find the perfect fizz and citrus balance that elevates the overall drinking experience.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Mocktails
- Method: Shaking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 5 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 0.2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg