Strawberry Basil Mocktail

This Strawberry Basil Mocktail is perfect for Dry January or Sober October. It’s made with strawberries, basil, lime juice, and a simple syrup for a refreshing spritzer. It’s simple to make and enjoy all year long! Cheers!

2025 is off and running, and with the New Year comes Dry January. Dry January started in the UK back in 2015 as a challenge; it is not a detox for those with dependency issues. This campaign is aimed at people who have steadily been drinking a bit too much, too often, without realizing the effect that it’s having on their health. Enter the rise of non-alcoholic cocktails/mocktails as a trend that is here to stay.

All The Mocktails

As a dietitian strolling through the grocery aisles, I can tell you that there are now more than ever options for those choosing to participate in Dry January and Sober October. With the recent statement from the U.S. Surgeon General’s office, ‘The science is clear: alcohol causes cancer.’ having more non-alcoholic options is essential. However, with all the selections, it can seem a tad overwhelming. Not to mention that some of these non-alcoholic options can have a ton of added sugar, i.e., juice and tonic water. Be aware of what’s added to your drink, and sip smarter! While we’re limiting alcohol (for good reason), we too should be monitoring added sugar as well!

How To Make A Health(ier) Mocktail

• Use seasonal ingredients! Seasonal fruit has natural sugar/sweetness, which reduces the need for sugar and other add-ins. Frozen fruit is a great option, too!
• Add some fizz from sparkling water, not sparkling wine or champagne, as it’s sans alcohol. Add the carbonated water for that fizz, keeping the drink festive and fun!
• Muddle in fresh herbs and spices! Maybe the idea of strawberry mixed with basil doesn’t sound like it’ll go together. The idea here is to pair fresh fruit with different herbs and spices to really draw on that bold flavor! When you muddle the leaves of the fresh herbs, their natural oils will release. They won’t be too overpowering, but they will give that subtle hint of flavor you’re looking for!
• Add kombucha for a nice base. In addition to the potential gut health benefits, kombucha offers a slight effervescence to give your mocktail a little something extra, keeping it exciting!

Ingredients: Strawberry Basil Mocktail

Here are a few ideas to help you build a flavorful mocktail sans alcohol. While this mocktail I created might look a little fancy, it’s super simple to throw together. Here’s what you’ll need to make this Strawberry Basil Mocktail!

• Strawberries: Here in Florida, strawberries are in season from November through March/early April. Even if you’re not able to find fresh strawberries this time of year, you can use frozen strawberries. Make sure the strawberries are defrosted, and you can muddle them to release their juices. You can also save this mocktail recipe for spring/summer.
• Lemon Juice: I used lemon juice here. However, lime juice could be used interchangeably as well.
• Basil: Even if you think you won’t like the two flavors together here, try it! Muddling this herb helps create a unique flavor in the drink, and it pairs really well with strawberries. If you’re still doubting, you can use mint as well.
• Simple Syrup: As discussed, mocktails can be a source of added sugar. However, depending on the combination, this drink will need just a hint of sweetness. This is my go-to sweetener, and I used just a smidge.
• Sparkling water: Aim for a sparkling water flavor with no added sugar. Sparkling water is being used in place of the alcohol in this drink. I used a plain flavor here. However, there are many options these days. Unflavored seltzer water would work as well.

How To Make a Strawberry Basil Mocktail

1. Muddle the strawberries and basil. Add 2-3 basil leaves to your mason jar or cocktail shaker. Add 4-5 strawberries and begin to muddle the two together. Muddling helps the two flavors marry together. Remember mint can be used in place of basil!
2. Add the rest of the ingredients. Add in your sparkling water, lemon juice, simple syrup (if using), and ice.
3. Shake for 10-15 seconds, or until well chilled.
4. Strain – use a strainer and pour into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. Garnish – add a basil leaf or lemon slice for garnish. Cheers!

Other Mocktails

• Tajin Watermelon Margarita – just leave the tequila out and add sparkling water instead!
• Pomegranate Mimosa – use a sparkling cider instead of champagne!
• Blood Orange Mocktail

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