If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant drink that’s perfect for any occasion, the Blueberry Basil Lemon Lavender Mocktail is the way to go. This non-alcoholic drink combines the sweet and tart flavors of fresh blueberries with the earthy taste of basil, a touch of floral lavender, and the zesty kick of lemon. It’s the ultimate drink to wow your guests while keeping things light and refreshing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Fresh and floral: The combination of blueberries, basil, and lavender creates a refreshing, aromatic experience in every sip.
- Perfectly balanced: The sweet blueberries are balanced with the tangy lemon and the herbal notes from the basil and lavender, making this mocktail deliciously complex.
- Easy to make: This mocktail is simple to prepare with just a few ingredients and is a beautiful addition to any party or gathering.
Ingredients
Here’s a preview of the ingredients you’ll need to make this Blueberry Basil Lemon Lavender Mocktail. Check the full list below for precise measurements.
- Fresh blueberries for sweetness and color
- Fresh basil leaves for an herbaceous twist
- Lemon juice for a tangy, refreshing contrast
- Lavender syrup or lavender extract for a light floral flavor
- Sparkling water or club soda for a fizzy finish
- Ice to keep it chilled
- Lemon slices and basil sprigs for garnish
For the full ingredient list and measurements, see the recipe card below.
Directions
- Muddle the ingredients: In a cocktail shaker or mixing glass, add a handful of fresh blueberries and basil leaves. Muddle (or mash) them gently to release the flavors.
- Add the liquids: Add the lemon juice and lavender syrup (or lavender extract) to the muddled mixture. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well to combine the flavors.
- Strain and serve: Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water or club soda for a fizzy finish.
- Garnish and enjoy: Garnish with a slice of lemon, a sprig of fresh basil, and a few whole blueberries for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Adjust sweetness: If you like your mocktail a little sweeter, add more lavender syrup or a spoonful of honey to taste.
- Lavender syrup: If you don’t have lavender syrup, you can make your own by simmering equal parts water and sugar with a handful of dried lavender buds for about 10 minutes, then straining it.
- Chill the ingredients: For an extra refreshing drink, chill the lemon juice and blueberries before mixing.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Different herbs: If basil isn’t your favorite, try using mint or thyme for a different herbal note.
- Berry swap: Feel free to use other berries like raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries in place of blueberries for a different flavor profile.
- Flavored sparkling water: For added flavor, try using flavored sparkling waters like lemon-lime, berry, or cucumber to enhance the drink’s flavor.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This Blueberry Basil Lemon Lavender Mocktail is perfect for a variety of occasions. Serve it at bridal showers, garden parties, or just as a refreshing afternoon drink. It pairs wonderfully with light appetizers like goat cheese crostini, fresh fruit salads, or cheese and charcuterie boards. For a more indulgent pairing, try it with fresh scones or shortbread cookies.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store the syrup: If you’ve made your own lavender syrup, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Keep it fresh: This mocktail is best served fresh, but you can prep the blueberry and basil muddled base in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just add ice and sparkling water when you’re ready to serve.
- Ice cubes: Make extra ice cubes with some fresh blueberries or basil leaves frozen inside them for a fun, extra touch to your mocktail.
FAQs
Can I use dried lavender instead of lavender syrup?
Yes! If using dried lavender, steep about 1 tablespoon in hot water for 5-7 minutes, then strain and use the lavender water in place of the lavender syrup.
Can I make this drink in a large batch?
Yes! You can easily scale up the recipe. Just muddle the blueberries and basil in a pitcher, add the lemon juice and lavender syrup, then top with sparkling water when serving.
Is there a substitute for sparkling water?
If you don’t have sparkling water, you can use any clear soda like club soda, tonic water, or even ginger ale, depending on your preference.
Can I make this drink alcoholic?
Yes! To turn this mocktail into a cocktail, you can add a splash of gin or vodka to give it a more traditional cocktail kick.
Conclusion
The Blueberry Basil Lemon Lavender Mocktail is a delightful drink that combines fresh flavors and a touch of elegance. It’s the perfect non-alcoholic option for any occasion, offering a unique and refreshing flavor profile that will be a hit with everyone. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just enjoying a quiet afternoon, this mocktail is a wonderful way to add some flavor and fun to your day.
PrintBlueberry Basil Lemon Lavender Mocktail
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Description
The Blueberry Basil Lemon Lavender Mocktail is a refreshing and aromatic beverage that combines the sweetness of blueberries, the herbal notes of basil, the tartness of lemon, and the floral essence of lavender. This non-alcoholic drink is perfect for summer gatherings or as a sophisticated alternative to traditional cocktails.
Ingredients
- Fresh Blueberries: 1 pint, muddled
- Fresh Basil Leaves: 1 cup, chopped
- Fresh Lemon Juice: 1/2 cup (approximately the juice of 2 lemons)
- Lavender Simple Syrup: 3/4 cup
- Soda Water: 1 1/2 cups
- Ice Cubes
- Lavender Simple Syrup:
- Sugar: 1 cup
- Water: 1 cup
- Lavender Buds: 1/2 cup (food grade)
Instructions
- Prepare the Lavender Simple Syrup:
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water.
- Stir over medium heat until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Add ½ cup of lavender buds to the saucepan.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture steep until it cools to room temperature.
- Strain the syrup to remove the lavender buds and transfer it to a clean container.
- Prepare the Mocktail:
- In a medium-sized pitcher, add the muddled blueberries, chopped basil, and fresh lemon juice.
- Muddle the ingredients together to release their flavors.
- Add 2 cups of ice cubes to the pitcher.
- Pour in the lavender simple syrup and soda water.
- Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Serve:
- Pour the mocktail into glasses filled with ice.
- Garnish with additional blueberries, lemon slices, and basil leaves.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
- For a spiked version, consider adding gin or vodka to taste.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of lavender simple syrup.
- This mocktail can be prepared in advance; however, it’s best to add the soda water just before serving to maintain its effervescence.
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 120
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 0g