Strawberry Basil Lemonade Cocktail

The other day I met a couple friends to go for a walk and we stopped at a neighbourhood restaurant(4th Spot Kitchen and Bar, which I highly recommend if you are in Calgary) for a drink and snack. I tried the “Mount Pleasant” cocktail and it was amazing!! When friends came by for drinks this week I made my version and it was a hit!! Now this drink is just as delicious with or without Vodka added, and is a great mocktail if you have friends who aren’t drinking. Skip the basil and it’s a huge hit with kids.

The strawberry purée was made ahead of our guests arrival. I took the stems off 8 small strawberries and pulsed them quickly in my blender. It was so simple and smelled delicious. My little ones loved it with a dash of lemonade and water.

We all agreed that this is a winning cocktail, but a word of warning, you will not taste the alcohol and it’s too easy to drink a few of these lovely, bright and refreshing drinks. I will definitely be serving this again before the summer is over and could not wait to share.

Strawberry Basil Lemonade

1 cup ice

2tbs puréed strawberries

2 oz Vodka(optional)

1/2 cup lemonade

1/2 cup club soda

1 large leaf of basil or two small ones(large chopped or torn)

In a large glass, add the ice, then puréed strawberries, then vodka, then lemonade and club soda. By adding in the order the drink will be lovely and layered. Add the basil to the top. Enjoy!!

Jess