This Lemon Basil Cooler tastes like an adult lemonade… but without all the sugar, juice, and additives. If you haven’t muddled herbs or fruit for an at-home cocktail before then you are missing out. Simply crush with a mortar and pestle (a bar cart essential for me) and if you don’t have one, you can use a bowl and meat grinder or heavy spoon. Squeeze fresh lemon juice and add a small dash of Agave, you’re done! This recipe is over the rocks but you can also add all the ingredients + ice into a blender and make it a frozen treat.

*Note: Tito’s is always a good option but as Nick and I are in Hawaii for the holidays, we used our favorite Pau Vodka made on the beautiful island of Maui for this recipe.

INGREDIENTS

2 oz. Vodka

1 Lemon

1 tsp. Agave

¼ cup Fresh Basil

¼ – ½ bottle of Sparkling Water (approx. 4oz.)

Ice Cubes

Serving Size: 2

INSTRUCTIONS

• Using a mortar and pestle, muddle the fresh basil. Saving 2-3 leaves for garnish.
• In a cocktail shaker, mix together the vodka, juice on one lemon, and the muddled basil.
• Shake vigorously for 30 seconds.
• Fill a serving glass with ice cubes.
• Strain the liquid from the cocktail shaker over the ice.
• Top with sparkling water.
• Enjoy!