Strawberry Basil Gin and Tonic

STRAWBERRY GIN AND TONIC – Refreshing, sweet from the strawberries, pleasingly pungent from the fresh basil, and fizzy from the tonic water.

There’s nothing like fresh fruit to brighten a cocktail. And this Strawberry Basil Gin and Tonic reminds me of summertime in a glass.

I grow fresh basil in my herb garden and this year, it exploded. And by exploded, I mean in a good way. I have a ton of fresh basil. So I’ve been experimenting by using basil in many different ways.

The basil elevates this cocktail like mint does in a mojito or my Aperol Spritz Cocktail.

Let’s talk Gin

I’ve heard people say they really like gin or they really do not like gin. I happen to be in the category of like. But I always prefer a little fruit in my gin cocktails, whether it’s lemon or lime or some type of berry.

Gin is made from the juniper plant and does have a bit of a plant taste. When making gin cocktails, make sure you buy decent gin.

You certainly don’t need to buy the most expensive gin, but make sure you buy a decent brand. I like Tanqueray and Bombay Sapphire brands and have both in my bar pantry.

Tonic water

There are so many different types of tonic water you can buy. But again I stick to the name brands because you can really taste the difference. The brands I like best are Schwepps, Q-tonic, and Fever-Tree.

All three brands also offer a sugar free or diet version if you want to cut back on your sugar intake.

How to freeze fresh strawberries

I like to buy fresh berries in bulk when they are in season and on sale. Then I fill my freezer full of fresh frozen berries so I have them all year round for cocktails, smoothies, pies, sauces, just about anything that calls for fresh fruit.

krazy kitchen mom tips for making cocktails

• When making any cocktail, fill the glass with ice first. Unless the glass needs to be rimmed with salt or sugar; then rim the glass first and then fill it with ice. Next, add the liquor directly over the ice. This allows the ice to cool the liquor which most people store at room temperature. Then lastly you add the soda, water, mix, etc., whatever additional ingredients you are using for the cocktail.
• Whenever possible, use fresh herbs and fresh fruit as garnishes. I also prefer to use fresh fruit as ingredients like in this cocktail.
• When I entertain, I like to make a signature cocktail for the occasion. This cocktail is perfect for a summer cookout or summer pool party. It’s also great for a Mother’s Day brunch or a girls luncheon.
• If you are serving a signature cocktail, make sure you have tested the cocktail recipe beforehand so you know what it tastes like and you like it.
• Use small to medium-sized glasses. You don’t want a glass that’s too large because the ice will melt and dilute the flavor of the drink.
• Use decent quality liquors and mixes. You don’t need to buy top of the line, but don’t go cheap with the ingredients.

Some of my other popular cocktails

• Pink Grape Fruit Margarita
• Mango Margarita
• Skinny Cucumber Lime Cocktail
• Lemon Berry Gin and Tonic
• Pomegranate Gin Fizz
• Apple Cider Margarita
• Lemonade Aperol Spritz
• Seabreeze Cocktail
• Spicy Salty Dog Cocktail