Spring Drinks With Strawberries

Name: Spring Drinks With Strawberries
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup; 2 cups sparkling water; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and blended to puree; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 2 tablespoons simple syrup; 2 cups soda water

Highlighted under: Festive Cooking Corner

I absolutely adore spring, and when it comes around, I can't resist creating refreshing drinks that showcase the vibrant flavors of fresh strawberries. These drinks are perfect for warm afternoons and gatherings with friends. The combination of sweet strawberries with refreshing herbs or sparkling beverages takes the enjoyment to a whole new level. Whether it's a light mocktail or a sprightly cocktail, I love experimenting with variations that uplift my spirits and brighten my day. You’ll want to sip and savor every drop of these vibrant drinks!

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2026-01-22T08:37:23.930Z

When I first started creating drinks with strawberries, I was amazed at how versatile they were. I quickly learned that a balance of sweetness and acidity is the key to making them shine. For instance, adding a splash of lemon juice not only enhances the strawberry's natural sweetness but also brightens the overall flavor profile.

One of my favorite methods is to blend fresh strawberries with mint leaves, which adds an unexpected yet delightful twist. This refreshing combination opened up a whole new realm of possibilities for me in the kitchen, and I'm excited to share these variations with you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Refreshing and fruity flavors that capture the essence of spring
Easy to make with just a few ingredients
Perfect for entertaining or a leisurely afternoon treat

Creating Balance in Your Drinks

Crafting the perfect balance between sweetness and acidity is key in both the Strawberry Mint Mocktail and the Strawberry Basil Spritzer. For the mocktail, the honey or agave syrup adds a natural sweetness that complements the tartness of the strawberries. Adjust the sweetness level to suit your taste; if you prefer a slightly less sweet drink, start with half the recommended amount of honey and taste as you go. Remember, the lemon juice also plays a crucial role in brightening the flavors, so don't skip it.

In the Strawberry Basil Spritzer, the sweet strawberry puree and simple syrup are countered by the refreshing tang of lime juice. This balance not only enhances the flavors but also highlights the aromatic qualities of the basil. If you're looking for a more herbaceous kick, feel free to increase the amount of basil, but be cautious not to overpower the drink. A little experimentation will lead you to your preferred flavor profile.

Garnishing Like a Pro

Presentation is important, especially when serving brightly colored drinks like these. To garnish your Strawberry Mint Mocktail and Strawberry Basil Spritzer beautifully, slice fresh strawberries and strategically place them on the rim of the glasses. This not only adds a pop of color but also gives a hint of the flavors waiting inside. For the mocktail, adding a mint sprig gives an aromatic touch, while the basil sprig in the spritzer adds an extra visual appeal.

To make your garnishes look even more enticing, consider using a cocktail pick to skewer a couple of strawberry slices and mint or basil leaves. This creates an elegant and inviting look that elevates your drink presentation, making them perfect for entertaining. Don't rush the garnishing process; it’s these small details that can make a big impact!

Make-Ahead Tips

These spring drinks can be prepped ahead of time to make entertaining effortless. For the Strawberry Mint Mocktail, prepare the strawberry and mint mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Keep the sparkling water separate until you're ready to serve, ensuring it maintains its effervescence. This mixture can be made up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully without losing freshness.

Similarly, for the Strawberry Basil Spritzer, the strawberry puree can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to two days. Just remember to blend in the freshly muddled basil and lime juice right before serving for the best flavor. With these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy your time with friends while serving chic and refreshing drinks!

Ingredients

For Strawberry Mint Mocktail

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup
2 cups sparkling water

For Strawberry Basil Spritzer

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and blended to puree
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
1 tablespoon lime juice
2 tablespoons simple syrup
2 cups soda water

Mix and match your favorite herbs and citrus to create your perfect spring drink!

Instructions

Prepare Strawberry Mint Mocktail

In a blender, combine the sliced strawberries, mint leaves, lemon juice, and honey until smooth. Pour the mixture into glasses filled with ice and top off with sparkling water. Stir gently to combine.

Make Strawberry Basil Spritzer

Blend fresh strawberries until smooth. In a glass, muddle basil leaves and lime juice. Add the strawberry puree and stir in simple syrup. Fill the glass with ice and top with soda water.

Garnish and Serve

Garnish each drink with fresh strawberry slices and a sprig of the respective herb. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Feel free to customize these drinks with your favorite herbs and sweeteners for added layers of flavor!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for unique flavor profiles. Don't hesitate to add other fruits such as kiwi or pineapple for a tropical twist.

Ingredient Quality Considerations

Using fresh, ripe strawberries is crucial for achieving the vibrant taste you want in both drinks. Look for strawberries that are deep red, fragrant, and free from blemishes. If fresh strawberries are out of season, you can use frozen ones; just make sure they are thawed and drained of excess moisture before blending. The flavor may not be as intense, but frozen strawberries can still yield a delicious and refreshing drink.

Similarly, using fresh herbs is important for maximizing flavor. Dried herbs will not deliver the same aromatic qualities and can lead to a less enjoyable drink. If you can't find fresh mint or basil, consider growing your own. It's an easy herb garden that can thrive in small spaces and elevate your drinks year-round.

Customizing Your Drinks

Feel free to customize these drinks based on your personal preferences or dietary needs! For the mocktails, you can swap out honey for maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly alternative. If you're looking for a sugar-free option, consider using a monk fruit sweetener, although you may need to adjust the quantity to your taste since some alternatives are sweeter than sugar.

In addition to changing sweeteners, you can experiment with different herbs. For example, swapping basil for rosemary in the spritzer can create an incredibly aromatic drink with a unique flavor profile. Don't hesitate to try out different combinations; each new mix-up could lead to a delightful surprise and a new favorite spring drink!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries work great, especially for creating a slushy texture. Just make sure to thaw them slightly before blending.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

You can use agave syrup, maple syrup, or any sweetener you prefer, including sugar.

→ How can I make these drinks alcoholic?

For an alcoholic version, simply add vodka or rum to the base mixture before topping with sparkling water or soda.

→ Can I prepare these drinks in advance?

While the base can be prepared in advance, it's best to add the sparkling components right before serving to maintain their fizz.