MSG Free Whole30 Lemon Basil Cooler
Bright, herby, and genuinely refreshing, this lemon basil cooler is the kind of drink that makes you feel like you're sitting on a sun-drenched patio even on an ordinary Tuesday. Fresh basil gets muddled until fragrant, then shaken hard with real lemon juice and cold water before being strained over ice and finished with a splash of sparkling water — it's simple technique with a seriously impressive result. Every single ingredient here is clean and whole, so there's no second-guessing labels or hunting for specialty products. Bottled drinks and flavored sparkling waters are notorious for sneaking in additives and flavor enhancers, but this one is built entirely from scratch with nothing but fruit, herbs, and water. The combination of still and sparkling water gives it a light effervescence without being overly fizzy, and the basil adds a subtle savory note that makes it feel far more sophisticated than your average lemonade. Serve it immediately while the bubbles are lively and the ice is still crisp for the best possible sip.
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Learn more →Ingredients
2 servings
- 8 fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (from about 4 lemons)
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 cup sparkling water, chilled
- 1 cup ice cubes
For serving
- 2 lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Place the basil leaves in a cocktail shaker or large mason jar. Muddle firmly with a muddler or the handle of a wooden spoon until the leaves are bruised and fragrant, about 10 seconds.
- 2
Add the lemon juice, cold water, and ice to the shaker. Seal and shake vigorously for 15 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
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