Recipe: Fizzy Basil Lemonade Mocktail

Your meal plan might not include pesto or an herby salad, but you’re gonna wanna grab a big bunch of basil anyway. Along with a splash of fizzy seltzer, it’s the sweet, herbal ingredient that elevates everyday lemonade into an impressive mocktail. Mix this up for those lazy days on the porch or a dinner with your neighbors. A few bubbles and herbs have a way of making any glass of lemonade feel elevated. Here’s how to make this refreshing booze-free drink.

One of the easiest ways to make a minimalist cocktail is to start with a drink you already adore. For this recipe you’ll want to plan ahead a day — or even just a couple hours in advance.

Make the lemonade: To make the lemonade, simmer equal parts water and sugar over low heat until dissolved. Once cooled to room temperature, add to a pitcher along with about four cups cold water and about one cup lemon juice. The lemonade can be made up to two weeks in advance, and stored in the refrigerator.

Want a more convenient option? Grab a bottle of your favorite store-bought lemonade for this drink.

Make it in advance: How To Make Lemonade

For each drink, gently muddle about 2 tablespoons of torn fresh basil leaves in the bottom of a tall glass. Add ice and fill the glass about halfway with lemonade (homemade or store-bought). Top the glass off with a pour of seltzer, and stir together. To serve, garnish with fresh slices of lemon and a sprig of fresh basil.

Go beyond seltzer, soda, and juice — shaking up booze-free drinks that actually feel fancy and fun is easier than you think. This series on sober celebrations will show you how to whip up super-impressive mocktails with just three basic ingredients.