Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450g) fresh strawberries, hulled
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (packed) fresh basil leaves
  • 6 cups (1.4 liters) sparkling water or club soda, chilled
  • Lemon slices and fresh basil sprigs, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Combine strawberries, basil leaves, and sugar in a blender. Blend until smooth.
  2. Pour the strawberry basil puree through a fine-mesh sieve (or cheesecloth-lined colander) into a bowl. Discard solids or save for another use.
  3. In a large pitcher, combine the strained strawberry basil puree and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
  4. Refrigerate the lemonade base for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Just before serving, add the chilled sparkling water to the pitcher. Stir gently.
  6. Pour into glasses filled with ice. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh basil sprigs, if desired.