Strawberry Basil Refresher

Strawberry Basil Refresher (ID: 21)

Description
A sophisticated garden-inspired smoothie that pairs sweet, juicy strawberries with aromatic fresh basil and bright lemon, creating a refreshing beverage with complex flavor notes and cooling properties perfect for warm weather.

Yield
16 oz (473 ml) - One serving

Preparation Time
5 minutes

Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 8-10 fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon raw honey (adjust to strawberry sweetness)
- 1 cup coconut water
- 1/4 cup cucumber, peeled and chopped (optional, for extra refreshment)
- Small pinch of sea salt
- Tiny pinch of freshly ground black pepper (enhances basil flavor)
- 5-6 ice cubes

Equipment
- Blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Microplane or zester (for lemon zest)
- Citrus juicer or reamer (for lemon)
- Glass for serving

Instructions
1. Wash strawberries and basil leaves thoroughly. Pat basil dry with paper towel.
2. Gently rub basil leaves between palms to release aromatic oils.
3. Add coconut water to the blender first.
4. Add strawberries, basil leaves, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, cucumber (if using), salt, and black pepper.
5. Add ice cubes.
6. Pulse a few times to roughly chop the ingredients.
7. Blend on medium speed for 30 seconds, then high speed for 30-45 seconds until smooth.
8. Taste and adjust flavors - add more honey if needed for sweetness or more lemon for brightness.

Nutritional Information (approximate)
- Calories: 160
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 6g
- Fat: 1g
- Vitamin C: 150mg
- Potassium: 550mg

Benefits
- Rich in vitamin C from strawberries for immune support and skin health
- Contains essential oils from basil that support digestion and provide antioxidants
- Provides electrolytes from coconut water for proper hydration
- Delivers natural enzymes that support digestion
- Offers anti-inflammatory compounds from both strawberries and basil

Variations
- For a cocktail-inspired mocktail: Add 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract and serve over crushed ice
- For digestive support: Add 1/2 inch piece of fresh ginger
- For protein addition: Include 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- For herbaceous complexity: Substitute some basil with fresh mint

Serving Suggestion
Serve well-chilled in a tall glass garnished with a fresh basil leaf and a small strawberry on the rim. For an elegant presentation, serve in a wine glass with a basil sprig. This sophisticated smoothie is perfect for brunches, garden parties, or as a refreshing afternoon cooler. The herbaceous notes make it unique among fruit smoothies and particularly appealing to those who prefer less sweet beverages. Best consumed fresh to preserve the delicate basil flavor.

Berry-Based Smoothies