This refreshing drink combines basil and strawberries with a touch of balsamic sweetness from agave nectar. Eliminate the vodka and you've got a nice "mocktail" for those who don't imbibe. This recipe is for an individual serving, so adjust accordingly for a crowd.

½ pint (8 ounces) strawberries (may use frozen)
¼ cup light agave
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 or 3 fresh basil leaves
1 ½ ounces vodka
½ cup ginger ale

Place the strawberries, agave and lime juice in a blender; pulse until smooth. Push puree through a mesh strainer, if you wish to remove the seeds. Lightly muddle basil leaves in a cocktail glass; top off with ice. Add about 2 tablespoons of the strawberry puree to the glass, followed by the vodka and ginger ale. Stir gently and garnish with additional basil, if desired.

Discover more information about Herbal Happy Hour 2018 ~ All That Glitters
in the archived edition of our Dec 2018 email.
Or get more recipe ideas/inspiration from our
Pinterest Board - [ herbal happy hour ]