Summer Strawberry Basil Margarita Drink Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the refreshing zing of a Summer Strawberry Basil Margarita to cool you down on a hot day. This drink is bright, herbaceous, and perfectly balanced between sweet strawberries and zesty lime, with just a touch of fragrant basil to elevate every sip.

I first discovered this flavor combo at a backyard BBQ when a friend served a pitcher of margaritas that tasted like summer in a glass. Since then, it’s become my go-to cocktail for everything from weekend lounging to impromptu happy hours.

Whether you're entertaining guests or just treating yourself, this strawberry basil margarita is guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into why you’ll want to make this drink on repeat all summer long.

Why You'll Love This Summer Strawberry Basil Margarita

This margarita is more than just a pretty drink — it delivers big on flavor, simplicity, and seasonal appeal.

First off, it’s the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The ripe strawberries add a natural sweetness, while the fresh lime juice brings a bright acidity that keeps the drink light and refreshing.

It’s also surprisingly easy to make. You don’t need any fancy tools or mixology skills — just a blender, a shaker (or even a mason jar), and a few fresh ingredients.

This recipe is budget-friendly, too. You can often find strawberries and basil in abundance during the summer months, especially at local farmers' markets. Add a mid-range tequila and you're set.

And let’s not forget how stunning it looks. The vibrant red hue and floating flecks of basil make it as photogenic as it is delicious — perfect for impressing friends or posting on your socials.

Once you’ve made it, you’ll want to sip it on repeat. Here’s everything you need to know about the ingredients that make it shine.

Ingredients Notes

This drink is made with just a handful of fresh, simple ingredients — each one bringing a distinct layer of flavor to the final cocktail.

Strawberries are the star of the show here. Fresh is best, especially when they’re in season and bursting with natural sweetness. If you’re using frozen strawberries, make sure they’re unsweetened and fully thawed for the smoothest blend.

Fresh basil leaves add a unique, aromatic twist. They provide a subtle herbal note that elevates the fruitiness of the strawberries and gives the drink a garden-fresh feel. Tear them before muddling to release their oils.

Tequila forms the boozy backbone of the margarita. I recommend using a good quality blanco tequila — it’s clean, smooth, and lets the fruity flavors shine through. Reposado can work too if you like a slightly warmer, oakier finish.

Lime juice, freshly squeezed, is non-negotiable. It brightens up the drink and balances the sweetness. Bottled lime juice just doesn’t compare — trust me on this one.

Simple syrup ties it all together. You can adjust the amount depending on how sweet your strawberries are, but a homemade syrup (equal parts sugar and water) gives you the most control.

You’ll also want a cocktail shaker, fine mesh strainer, and blender for the best texture. A muddler helps too, but the back of a spoon works in a pinch.

How To Make This Summer Strawberry Basil Margarita

Crafting this drink is easier than it looks, and the end result is well worth the few extra steps. Here’s how it all comes together.

Start by prepping your ingredients. Hull the strawberries, tear the basil leaves, and juice your limes. If you’re making your own simple syrup, combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan over low heat until dissolved. Let it cool before using.

Next, add the strawberries and lime juice to a blender. Blend until smooth, then pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove any seeds or pulp. This step ensures a smooth, sippable consistency.

In a cocktail shaker, muddle the basil leaves gently — just enough to release their oils without turning them bitter. Add the strawberry-lime puree, tequila, simple syrup, and a handful of ice.

Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels icy cold. This chills the drink and helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.

Strain the margarita into a glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with a small sprig of basil and a sliced strawberry if you’re feeling fancy.

From start to finish, the process takes about 10 minutes. The result? A smooth, vibrant, and incredibly refreshing margarita that tastes like summer in a glass.

Storage Options

This margarita is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to get a head start for a party or gathering, there are a few ways to prep in advance.

You can blend the strawberry and lime juice mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just give it a quick shake or stir before using.

Simple syrup can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the fridge in a sealed jar or bottle.

It’s not recommended to fully assemble the cocktail ahead of time, as the basil can lose its flavor and the drink can become diluted. For best results, assemble and shake just before serving.

If you have leftovers, store the mixture (without ice) in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Be sure to shake or stir well before drinking again.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this margarita is how customizable it is. You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Swap the strawberries for other summer fruits like raspberries, watermelon, or mango. Each brings its own unique twist and works beautifully with basil.

If you’re out of basil, try fresh mint instead. It adds a slightly different but equally refreshing herbal note that pairs well with fruit.

Not a fan of tequila? You can substitute it with white rum or even vodka for a different kind of cocktail. The core flavors will still shine.

For a spicy kick, muddle in a few slices of jalapeño with the basil. The heat pairs surprisingly well with the sweet strawberries and gives the drink a bold twist.

And for a frozen version, just blend all the ingredients with ice until slushy. It’s the perfect poolside sipper!

No matter how you customize it, this Summer Strawberry Basil Margarita is endlessly adaptable. Don’t be afraid to experiment — you might just discover a new favorite combo!

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