Strawberry Vodka Cocktail Recipe

This sublime Strawberry Vodka Cocktail recipe is the perfect blend of sweet, tart, and refreshing. With the juicy freshness of strawberries, the aromatic hint of basil, the zestiness of lemon, the soothing sweetness of honey, and the kick of vodka, you're in for a delightful treat. This cocktail is perfect for a summer evening or whenever you need a fruity, uplifting drink.

Photos of Strawberry Vodka Cocktail Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe should be readily available in most kitchens. However, you might need to head to the supermarket for fresh strawberries and basil leaves. Remember, the fresher the ingredients, the more vibrant and flavorful your cocktail will be. You could also opt for organic strawberries which are often sweeter and juicier. Basil leaves can be found in the fresh produce section or in the herb aisle.

Ingredients for the Strawberry Vodka Cocktail

Strawberries: This gives the cocktail a fresh, fruity flavor and natural sweetness.

Basil leaves: Adds a hint of aromatic, herby flavor that complements the fruitiness of the strawberries.

Lemon: Gives the cocktail a citrusy kick, enhancing the flavor of the other ingredients.

Honey: Adds a soothing sweetness that pairs perfectly with the tartness of the strawberries and lemon.

Vodka: The main alcoholic ingredient that gives this cocktail its kick. Feel free to adjust the amount according to your preference.

Club soda: Adds a refreshing fizziness to the cocktail while diluting the strong flavors slightly.

One reader, Basile Merritt says:

This strawberry vodka cocktail recipe is a game-changer! The blend of fresh strawberries, basil, and a hint of honey creates a refreshing and delightful drink. The addition of vodka gives it a perfect kick, and the club soda adds a fizzy touch. It's a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast!

Basile Merritt

Techniques Required for Making a Strawberry Vodka Cocktail

Muddle the strawberries and basil: Thoroughly crush the strawberries and basil together to release their flavors and juices.

Squeeze the lemon: Extract the juice from the lemon to add a citrusy tang to the cocktail.

Stir in the vodka: Mix the vodka into the muddled strawberry and basil mixture to infuse the flavors.

Top off with club soda: Add club soda to the cocktail to give it a refreshing fizz.

Mix the drink: Gently pour the cocktail back and forth between the mixing glass and the drinking glass to ensure all the ingredients are well combined.

Garnish with lemon round and a strawberry: Add a lemon round and a strawberry as a decorative finishing touch to the cocktail.

Sipping on a strawberry vodka cocktail always puts me in a good mood. It’s one of those strawberry alcoholic drinks that invigorates me on scorching days. I looove its fresh flavors with a faint sweetness coming from the honey. Oh, and the lovely red hue of this strawberry smash cocktail only adds to its appeal!

This might be one of the simplest strawberry vodka drinks to make. There’s one catch, though: you should use the best ingredients.

By best, I mean the freshest strawberries and basil leaves you can find. Freshly-squeezed lemon juice boosts the taste of this strawberry drink, too.

Other recipes use sparkling wine, seltzer water, and sprite, but I prefer club soda. As for the vodka, Smirnoff might be the popular option for this strawberry vodka cocktail. But of course, feel free to tinker around with the ingredients to make a strawberry vodka drink that tastes perfect for you!

My strawberry vodka cocktail requires “muddling” (lightly mashing the ingredients together) — which I insist you don’t skip. This will release the juices of strawberries and basil, allowing their flavors to blend well with the alcohol.

Making this strawberry basil vodka cocktail couldn’t be any easier. And I wouldn’t be surprised if it will quickly become one of your favorite vodka cocktail recipes. Cheers to refreshing strawberry cocktails, like this strawberry lemonade drink! It will keep us all relaxed on hot summer days!

How To Make Strawberry Vodka Cocktail

Enjoy the summertime with this easy strawberry vodka cocktail recipe! It’s made with strawberries, basil, vodka, and club soda for a boozy and refreshingly cold drink.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

5 pcs strawberries, ripe
5 pcs basil leaves, fresh
1 lemon, juiced
honey, to taste
1½ oz vodka
ice cubes
club soda

Instructions

In a mixing glass, thoroughly muddle the strawberries with the basil.
Squeeze in the juice of 1 lemon, then drizzle in the honey.
Stir in the vodka.
Fill a Collins glass with ice and pour the mixture into the glass. Top it off with club soda.
Mix by pouring the drink back into the mixing glass, then back into the drinking glass.
Garnish with lemon round and a strawberry.
Serve and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Slice the strawberries to make the muddling easier.
Feel free to replace fresh strawberries with store-bought or homemade strawberry syrup.
You can also use lime juice if you don’t have lemon juice.

Nutrition

Calories: 137.12kcal
Fat: 0.39g
Saturated Fat: 0.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.04g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.17g
Carbohydrates: 10.63g
Fiber: 3.01g
Sugar: 4.74g
Protein: 1.17g
Sodium: 2.36mg
Calcium: 30.25mg
Potassium: 190.61mg
Iron: 0.71mg
Vitamin A: 7.85µg
Vitamin C: 70.68mg

Essential Technique Tip for Making a Strawberry Vodka Cocktail

When muddling the strawberries and basil leaves, it's important not to overdo it. You want to press enough to release the juices and essential oils, but not so much that the ingredients become a mushy mess. This will ensure your cocktail has a fresh and vibrant flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Making a Strawberry Vodka Cocktail

Prep ahead: Prepare the muddled strawberries and basil in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Use a citrus squeezer: A citrus squeezer can help you extract the maximum amount of juice from the lemon quickly and efficiently.

Organize your ingredients: Before you start, gather all the ingredients and tools you need to make the cocktail to streamline the process.

Double the recipe: If you're serving a larger group, consider doubling or tripling the recipe to save time on preparation.

Chill the glasses: Place the serving glasses in the freezer for a few minutes before making the cocktail to ensure they are nice and cold when serving.

Invest in a good muddler: Using a quality muddler will help you efficiently crush the strawberries and basil for the cocktail.

Pre-slice garnishes: Pre-slice the lemon rounds and strawberries for garnish in advance to save time when serving the cocktails.

Efficient mixing: Use a long-handled bar spoon for efficient mixing and stirring of the cocktail ingredients.

Substitute Ingredients For Strawberry Vodka Cocktail Recipe

strawberries - Substitute with raspberries: Raspberries have a similar tartness and sweetness to strawberries, making them a suitable substitute for cocktails.
basil leaves - Substitute with mint leaves: Mint leaves can provide a refreshing and aromatic flavor similar to basil, adding a delightful twist to the cocktail.
lemon - Substitute with lime: Lime can offer a similar level of acidity and citrusy brightness to the cocktail, complementing the other flavors effectively.
honey - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar provides a comparable level of sweetness and a mild, pleasant flavor, enhancing the cocktail without overpowering it.
vodka - Substitute with white rum: White rum can bring a smooth and slightly sweet character to the cocktail, offering a different but enjoyable flavor profile.
club soda - Substitute with sparkling water: Sparkling water can provide the effervescence and crispness that club soda offers, making it an excellent substitute for this cocktail recipe.

How to Present a Strawberry Vodka Cocktail

Elevate the cocktail glassware: Choose elegant and sophisticated glassware that complements the vibrant colors of the cocktail, such as crystal highball glasses or sleek martini glasses.
Garnish with precision: Add a touch of finesse by meticulously placing the lemon round and strawberry garnish on the rim of the glass, ensuring they are visually appealing and inviting.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Artfully drizzle a small amount of honey on the surface of the cocktail, creating an eye-catching design that adds a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Utilize natural lighting: When presenting the cocktail, position it near a source of natural light to enhance the visual appeal and showcase the vibrant hues of the strawberries and basil.
Accentuate with fresh ingredients: Display a few fresh strawberries and basil leaves on the serving tray or table to emphasize the use of high-quality, fresh ingredients in the cocktail.
Emphasize the cocktail's effervescence: Serve the cocktail with a delicate stirrer or swizzle stick, highlighting the effervescence of the club soda and adding a touch of sophistication to the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making a Strawberry Vodka Cocktail

Mixing glass: A sturdy glass vessel used for mixing and muddling ingredients for cocktails.
Collins glass: A tall, narrow glass typically used for serving mixed drinks, such as the strawberry vodka cocktail.
Muddler: A tool used to crush and mix ingredients, such as strawberries and basil, in cocktails.
Bar spoon: A long-handled spoon used for stirring and layering drinks in a mixing glass or shaker.
Citrus juicer: A tool designed for efficiently extracting juice from lemons and other citrus fruits.
Knife: Used for cutting and slicing ingredients, such as strawberries and lemon rounds, for garnishing the cocktail.
Jigger: A small measuring tool used to accurately pour and measure the vodka for the cocktail.
Strainer: Used to strain the muddled ingredients and ice when pouring the cocktail into the serving glass.
Ice: Essential for chilling and diluting the cocktail, as well as for filling the serving glass.

Interesting Fact About Strawberry Vodka Cocktails

Strawberry vodka cocktail is a refreshing and fruity drink that can be enjoyed on a warm summer day. The combination of strawberries, basil, and lemon creates a unique and delightful flavor profile. This cocktail is perfect for entertaining guests or simply relaxing at home. It's a great way to enjoy the natural sweetness of strawberries while adding a kick of vodka for a fun and flavorful beverage.

Is Making a Strawberry Vodka Cocktail at Home Cost-Effective?

The strawberry vodka cocktail recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Strawberries and basil are affordable, and the use of honey and lemon adds a touch of elegance without breaking the bank. The addition of vodka and club soda may slightly increase the cost, but the overall expense is reasonable. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly option for a refreshing and delightful cocktail. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is This Strawberry Vodka Cocktail Healthy or Unhealthy?

This strawberry vodka cocktail recipe, while refreshing and flavorful, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are the added sugar from the honey and the presence of alcohol. Consuming excessive amounts of added sugars can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and an increased risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Additionally, alcohol consumption should be moderated as it can lead to various health issues when consumed in excess.

However, there are some positive aspects to this recipe. Strawberries are a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, while basil offers a unique flavor profile and potential anti-inflammatory properties. Lemon juice provides a dose of vitamin C and can help balance the sweetness of the honey.

To make this cocktail healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of honey used or replace it with a natural, low-calorie sweetener like stevia
Use fresh, ripe strawberries to minimize the need for additional sweeteners
Increase the proportion of club soda to create a lower-calorie, more hydrating drink
Opt for a high-quality, organic vodka to avoid potential contaminants
Limit your intake to one or two cocktails per occasion and alternate with water to stay hydrated
Experiment with other healthy ingredients like mint, cucumber, or ginger to add flavor and nutritional benefits

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy this strawberry vodka cocktail as an occasional treat while minimizing the potential negative health impacts. Remember, moderation is key when it comes to consuming alcoholic beverages and added sugars.

Editor's Opinion on This Strawberry Vodka Cocktail Recipe

This strawberry vodka cocktail recipe is a delightful combination of fresh strawberries, aromatic basil, and zesty lemon, creating a refreshing and vibrant drink. The muddled strawberries and basil infuse the cocktail with a burst of fruity and herbal flavors, complemented by the bright acidity of the lemon and the subtle sweetness of honey. The addition of vodka adds a smooth kick, while the club soda provides a fizzy finish. The garnish of lemon and strawberry adds a visually appealing touch. Overall, this cocktail is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for a summer gathering or a relaxing evening.

Enhance Your Strawberry Vodka Cocktail Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Create a creamy garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of truffle oil for a luxurious side dish.

Grilled Asparagus: Serve up some tender grilled asparagus drizzled with balsamic glaze and sprinkled with parmesan cheese for a savory accompaniment.

Fruit Salad: Whip up a refreshing fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits tossed in a zesty citrus dressing for a light and vibrant side dish.

Alternative Cocktail Recipes Similar to a Strawberry Vodka Cocktail

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a flavorful herb and oil mixture before threading them onto skewers and grilling until tender and slightly charred.

Braised Beef Short Ribs: Slowly cook the beef short ribs in a rich and savory broth until they are fall-off-the-bone tender, then serve with creamy mashed potatoes and a side of roasted vegetables.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Combine ripe mango, creamy coconut milk, and nutritious chia seeds to create a refreshing and healthy dessert that can be enjoyed for breakfast or as a sweet treat.

Why trust this Strawberry Vodka Cocktail Recipe:

This recipe uses fresh, high-quality strawberries and basil for a burst of flavor. The addition of lemon juice and a touch of honey enhances the natural sweetness. The use of premium vodka ensures a smooth and refined taste. The method of muddling the ingredients ensures that the flavors are fully extracted. The addition of club soda adds a refreshing effervescence. The garnish of lemon and strawberry adds a beautiful finishing touch. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful and well-balanced cocktail experience.

Want to share your own twist on this Strawberry Vodka Cocktail Recipe or discuss your experience making it? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How can I make this cocktail non-alcoholic?

To make a non-alcoholic version of this cocktail, simply omit the vodka and replace it with additional club soda or a splash of sparkling water for a refreshing and fruity mocktail.

Can I use a different type of berry for this cocktail?

Yes, you can definitely experiment with different berries such as raspberries, blackberries, or blueberries to create variations of this cocktail. Each berry will bring its own unique flavor to the drink.

Can I prepare the strawberry and basil mixture in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the strawberry and basil mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. This will allow the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more infused and flavorful cocktail.

Is there a substitute for honey in this recipe?

If you prefer to use a different sweetener, you can substitute honey with agave nectar, simple syrup, or even maple syrup to achieve the desired level of sweetness in the cocktail.

Can I make a large batch of this cocktail for a party?

Certainly! You can easily scale up the recipe to make a larger batch by multiplying the ingredients accordingly. Simply prepare the strawberry and basil mixture in a pitcher, then add the lemon juice, vodka, and club soda when ready to serve.