MSG Free Strawberry Basil Sparkling Cooler
Fresh strawberries, fragrant basil, a splash of lemon, and sparkling water — this cooler is the kind of drink that makes a regular afternoon feel like a special occasion. The homemade strawberry-basil syrup is the real star here, built from whole fruit and maple syrup simmered down into something deeply flavorful and naturally sweet. Steeping fresh basil leaves into the warm syrup draws out a herbal, almost floral note that pairs beautifully with the brightness of the berries. Because every component is made from scratch with whole, recognizable ingredients, there's no need to scrutinize store-bought syrups or flavored mixers for hidden additives. A quick strain, a squeeze of lemon, and a top-up of chilled sparkling water is all it takes to bring it together. Served over ice with a sprig of basil and a few halved strawberries, it looks stunning without any extra effort — the kind of thing guests assume took far longer than it did.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the strawberry basil syrup
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup water
- 10 fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish
For the cooler
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 4 cups sparkling water, chilled
- 2 cups ice cubes
For serving
- 4 fresh strawberries, halved (optional)
- 4 fresh basil sprigs (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the strawberries, maple syrup, and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries have softened and released their juices and the liquid is lightly syrupy, about 5 minutes.
- 2
Remove the pan from the heat. Add the basil leaves and press them gently into the warm syrup with a muddler or the back of a spoon. Let the mixture steep for 10 minutes, until the syrup is fragrant with basil.
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