Basil Lime Soda

Basil Lime Soda is a sweet, refreshing and herbaceous drink to enjoy during the warmer seasons. The tangy syrup can be kept in the fridge, and turned into a lemonade-like drink by mixing with sparkling water. Keep it alcohol-free, or add a splash of gin or white rum for something a little extra.

As always with this time of year in Australia, the mercury continues to rise despite our animated protests. Long, hot days require ice cold drinks. There's nothing quite like a cool and invigorating beverage to beat the heat. Enter Basil Lime Soda, a concoction that brings together the cooling properties of basil and the citrusy punch of lime. The result is a drink that provides instant relief on scorching summer days.

Homemade cordials and syrups

This recipe starts with a homemade syrup. A classic 1:1 simple syrup, with lime juice and basil leaves. Experimenting with flavours allows you to tailor your beverages to your taste preferences and keeps things interesting when you've got guests to entertain.

These homemade syrups are not limited to drinks alone; they can also add a burst of flavour to desserts, salads, and even marinades. Drizzle lime and basil syrup over fresh fruit salads, use it as a glaze for grilled chicken, or add a splash to your favourite ice cream. The versatility of these mixtures opens up a world of culinary possibilities! When stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator, homemade syrups can last for up to two weeks. Their longevity allows you to prepare in advance.

The shift from cocktails to mocktails

At the time of writing this post, I am six months pregnant, and so well into non-alcoholic alternatives. Outside of my pregnant bubble, in recent years there has been a noticeable shift in beverage preferences, with the consumption of alcohol on a gradual decline.

Health-conscious lifestyles, increased awareness of the negative effects of excessive alcohol intake, and a growing trend towards mindful drinking have contributed to this change. As a result, the demand for non-alcoholic options is on the rise. People are seeking delicious alternatives that provide the same level of enjoyment without the intoxicating effects.

The versatility of Basil Lime Soda, doubling as a standalone refresher and a base for creative mocktails, aligns seamlessly with this emerging trend. This shift towards non-alcoholic beverages not only promotes responsible drinking but also allows individuals to savour sophisticated and refreshing drinks without the possibility of a hangover.

The perfect Christmas accompaniment

Australia, known for its sunny Christmas celebrations, provides the ideal backdrop for introducing Basil Lime Soda to the holiday table. With temperatures soaring, a cool and vibrant drink like this becomes a festive favourite.

Picture the quintessential Australian festive scene: a laid-back Christmas gathering with friends and family. In the midst of the festivities, serve up Basil Lime Soda as a welcome drink, or to accompany your mains. The green hues of the basil and lime create a visually appealing drink that aligns perfectly with the holiday spirit.

Pair it with traditional Aussie Christmas fare, like a succulent roast lamb or fresh seafood. The herbal notes of basil will complement the richness of the dishes, making Basil Lime Soda a versatile addition to your Christmas menu.

Ingredients

• Castor sugar
• Lime juice
• Lime zest
• Basil
• Sparkling water
• Fresh lime

See recipe card below for quantities.

Tips and variations

• Citrus: swap the lime juice and zest for lemon, or another tangy citrus like kumquat or calamansi.
• Herbs: swap the basil for mint, thyme or tarragon. You could even try a woodier herb like sage, something similar to my salted sage lemonade.
• Sparkling water: swap for any club soda, or even a flavoured sparkling water. Lime infused soda water would work wonderfully with this recipe!

Equipment

• Knife
• Chopping board
• Citrus squeezer
• Small glass jug
• Saucepan
• Kitchen scales
• Spoon

Watch the video here. If you make this one, don't forget to tag me on TikTok or Instagram. I love to see it!