We’re all looking forward to the long Memorial Day weekend, which signals the start of the busy summer season. If you’re hosting friends and family, you’ve still got some time to plan your menu. Whether you’re going traditional with BBQ or opting for a more creative celebration with crawfish, Thai, pasta, or tacos, add some sparkle to the occasion with our newest mocktail recipe!
Fresh, Fun & Fizzy
This thirst-quenching, antioxidant-friendly beverage will leave you (and your guests!) feeling refreshed and invigorated. Made with sparkling water, this effervescent mocktail looks and tastes like a soda… making it perfect for your holiday festivities! Let’s take a look at the health benefits delivered by the primary ingredients:
Basil: A staple in Italian cuisine and backyard herb gardens, basil provides several health benefits. It contains essential oils that promote healthy skin, fight infection and inflammation, and can help you manage stress. Basil is also a great source of vitamin K (vital for blood clotting and building bone) and multiple antioxidants. Make sure you use fresh basil; the benefits are lost when the leaves are dried.
Strawberries: This summer favorite is surprisingly packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, potassium, and fiber. They have also been credited with lowering blood pressure and increasing good cholesterol. A serving of 8 strawberries contains more vitamin C than an orange!
Lemon: A popular companion to iced and hot tea, lemons have so much more to offer! Studies have shown that their high vitamin C (a powerful antioxidant) content can help reduce blood pressure and stroke risk, promote iron absorption, and support your immunity.
Aloe Vera: Our recipe wouldn’t be complete without Lily’s organic aloe vera. This clinically proven formula can help your body by supporting nutrient absorption, reducing toxins, maintaining healthy digestion, and supporting immunity.
Here’s What You’ll Need
- 2 cups of ripe strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 1/3 cup of organic cane sugar
- Juice of half a lemon
- 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- A handful of fresh basil, roughly chopped or torn
- Sparkling water
- Fresh strawberries for serving
- 4 tbsp Inner Fillet Aloe Vera
Preparing The Recipe
You’ll need a pitcher, a muddler (or a wooden spoon), and chilled glasses (or mason jars).
- Rinse and prepare the strawberries.
- Squeeze the lemon juice.
- Place the strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla, aloe vera, and basil in the pitcher.
- Muddle the ingredients to release the flavors. If you’re using a wooden spoon, use the handle end.
- Add the sparkling water and stir gently.
- Pour into chilled glasses and garnish with fresh strawberry slices.
- Enjoy!!
Note: If you’re making this mocktail for guests, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store in the refrigerator. Once guests arrive, add the chilled sparkling water, and serve! Expecting a large crowd? Just double the recipe!
Let’s Kick Off Summer With Lily!
Summertime is synonymous with vacationing and spending more time outdoors! Lily of The Desert products protect your skin, help you stay hydrated, and keep you feeling energetic. Most major grocers and health food stores carry a variety of our products. You can use our store locator to find a retailer in your area or shop online from the comfort of home at Amazon, Vitacost, and Swanson’s Vitamins.
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