Lemon Basil Sparkler – Zesty & Fresh!

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Description

The Lemon Basil Sparkler is a bright, bubbly, and invigorating drink that combines the tartness of fresh lemon juice with the herbal freshness of basil, all topped with sparkling water for a fizzy finish. Perfect for summer afternoons, brunches, or as a light mocktail, this drink is hydrating, revitalizing, and naturally uplifting without added alcohol.

Ingredients For Lemon Basil Sparkler – Zesty & Fresh!

  • 1 cup cold sparkling water (unsweetened)

  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)

  • 1–2 tsp honey or agave syrup (optional, adjust to taste)

  • 4–5 fresh basil leaves

  • Ice cubes

  • Lemon slices & basil sprig (for garnish)

 Instructions

  1. In a glass, muddle basil leaves gently with honey (or agave) to release the oils and aroma.

  2. Add freshly squeezed lemon juice and stir well.

  3. Fill the glass with ice cubes.

  4. Pour in cold sparkling water and give it a gentle stir.

  5. Garnish with a lemon slice and a fresh basil sprig.

  6. Serve immediately while fizzy and refreshing!

Notes

  • For a sweeter version, increase honey/agave or add a splash of simple syrup.

  • Can be turned into a cocktail by adding 1 oz vodka, gin, or white rum.

  • Best enjoyed freshly made, as basil can darken if left too long in liquid.

  • For a stronger basil flavor, muddle more leaves or make a basil-infused simple syrup.

Tips

  • Always use chilled sparkling water for maximum fizz.

  • Roll the lemon before juicing to release more juice.

  • If serving for a crowd, prepare a lemon-basil concentrate (lemon juice + sweetener + muddled basil) and add sparkling water just before serving.

  • Try swapping basil with mint or thyme for flavor variety.

 Servings

  • Recipe makes 1 serving (about 10 oz glass).

  • Scale up easily for a pitcher (multiply ingredients by 4–6).

Nutritional Info (per serving)

  • Calories: ~40 (with honey)

  • Carbs: 11g

  • Sugars: 9g

  • Fat: 0g

  • Protein: 0g

  • Fiber: <1g

  • Vitamin C: ~25% DV

(Values may vary depending on sweetener used)

 Health Benefits

  • Hydrating & refreshing – sparkling water keeps you cool.

  • Rich in Vitamin C – lemons boost immunity.

  • Digestive aid – basil soothes the stomach and reduces bloating.

  • Low-calorie alternative to sodas and packaged drinks.

  • Mood booster – citrus aroma + basil’s calming properties help reduce stress.

Q/A

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but add sparkling water only right before serving to keep the fizz.

Q2: Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is best for brightness, but bottled works in a pinch.

Q3: What if I don’t have sparkling water?
You can use club soda or tonic water (though tonic adds slight bitterness).

Q4: How do I make it kid-friendly?
Skip the sweetener or reduce it—kids love the fizzy lemon-basil flavor as is.

Q5: Can I make a large batch for a party?
Yes! Mix lemon juice, sweetener, and muddled basil as a base, refrigerate, and just before serving, top with lots of ice and sparkling water.

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