Sparkling Blueberry Lemonade w/Basil: Your New Go-To Summer Drink
Planning your next gathering? Don't forget the drinks! This vibrant sparkling blueberry lemonade is the one showstopper everyone will be talking about.
What could be more refreshing than a cool glass of lemonade? Our version includes the vibrant flavors of blueberry and basil, lending a summery taste and beautiful color to the drink. This blueberry-basil lemonade recipe can be served with or without spirits, making it a perfect choice for kids and adults alike for any special occasion or simple get-together.
For an extra touch of color and flair, consider adding other antioxidant-rich berries to the garnish along with the blueberries. A small skewer with a blueberry, a strawberry, and a raspberry will add a burst of red to the glass, making these cocktails even more visually stunning. You can also substitute lime juice for the lemon to turn this into a limeade that’s just as tasty!
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Blueberry Lemonade Recipe Highlights
This recipe isn’t just a treat for your taste buds—it’s also packed with nutritional benefits from three key ingredients.
Blueberries
These tiny superfoods are brimming with antioxidants, especially flavonoids called anthocyanins, which give them their deep blue hue. These antioxidants help combat free radicals in the body. Blueberries are also an excellent source of vitamin C and vitamin K, and they contain a good amount of fiber. They are on the Dirty Dozen list, so always buy organic when possible.
Basil
More than just a fragrant herb, basil is a powerful source of vitamins and minerals. It’s rich in vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting, and vitamin A, which supports healthy vision. Additionally, basil contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and support overall health.
Lemons
Beyond their bright, zesty flavor, lemons are a fantastic source of nutrients. They are most well-known for being high in vitamin C (btw, so is watermelon), a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function and promotes healthy skin. The citric acid in lemons also aids in digestion and can help keep you hydrated.
What to Serve with This Sparkling Lemonade Recipe
This sparkling refresher goes hand-and-hand with hot weather, so we say divvy this up at your next barbecue. Beyond our best tips on grilling (glazing, rubs, and marinades), you might want to check out our compound butter recipes to uplevel your corn on the cob. The puckery punch of the blueberry lemonade pairs nicely with this grilled stuffed eggplant with tangy goat cheese and tomatoes. You can’t go wrong with the quintessential summer fruit so here are six watermelon recipes. And, finally, for dessert try out this easy summery plum tart recipe.
Blueberry-Basil Lemonade Recipe
Ingredients
Directions
Combine the fresh lemon juice and blueberries in a large bowl. Tear the basil leaves with your hands and add them to the bowl. Muddle gently with a pestle or a muddler and let stand in the fridge while you prepare the simple syrup.
Heat the sugar and water in a non-toxic saucepan over low heat. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Allow to cool in the fridge, about 30 minutes.
When the simple syrup is cool, press the muddled lemon, blueberry and basil mixture through a fine sieve into a large pitcher. Add the sparkling water and the syrup, starting with half of the syrup and adding more to taste. You may add less or more syrup depending on the sweetness of your blueberries. Stir to combine.
To serve, add ice to individual glasses. Add vodka if desired, then add the lemonade. Stir to combine. Garnish with two blueberries on a small skewer or toothpick and a basil leaf or basil flower.
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