This strawberry lemon smash cocktail is a boozy spin on my favorite summer slushie! It’s bright, citrusy, and has just a hint of strawberry. If you’re a fan of lemon-berry slushies or strawberry lemonade, you are going to love this cocktail!
Frequently Asked QUestions
What is a smash?
There isn’t an exact definition of a smash but in general it contains a seasonal fruit, herb, alcohol, ice, and water. The most commonly known smash is the Mint Julep.
Can I substitute another berry?
Of course! This recipe is also delicious with raspberries or blueberries– feel free to be creative. Just make sure to use fresh, not frozen berries.
What is limoncello?
Limoncello is a spirit (typically from Southern Italy) made by steeping lemon rinds in clear alcohol and then mixing it with simple syrup. You can make your own limoncello at home (I’ve never tried it but I want to!) or you can find it in almost any liquor store.
can i make this non-alcoholic?
Of course. You can substitute the limoncello for more freshly squeezed lemon juice and leave the gin/vodka out entirely.
Let’s talk ingredients (& Substitutions)
Berries: I love using fresh strawberries during the summer when they’re in season! Again, any berries will be delicious– just make sure they’re fresh.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key to this drink! You need that freshness to balance out the alcohol so please don’t substitute lemon juice from a bottle.
Limoncello: Limoncello adds a citrusy sweetness to the drink to make it extra special!
White Liquor: Almost any white liquor will work in this drink. My favorite is gin but vodka and white rum are also delicious.
Bubbles: You can use any kind of bubbles you have on hand– club soda, sparkling water, tonic water, Champagne.. anything to give it a little extra effervescence.
A Note on Pairing Liquor & Bubbles ~
Make sure you’re choosing flavors that go well together. For example, if using gin I’d recommend pairing it with tonic. If using vodka, I’d recommend club soda.
How to make a strawberry lemon smash
Step one: Muddle the berries
In a cocktail shaker (or small jar), muddle together the strawberries and lemon juice until the strawberries have broken and released their juices– about 30 seconds.
step two: Add alcohol & Ice
Add the limoncello, gin, and ice to the muddled strawberries. Gently shake to combine.
Word to the Wise ~
Keep in mind that gin can “bruise” if shaken too vigorously. Bruised gin takes on a harsher bite and loses some of its botanical flavor so shake gently– you just want to combine the ingredients.
step three: Strain & serve
Strain half of the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice. Top with tonic water and a lemon wedge. Serve immediately.
other cocktail ideas
The recipe
Strawberry Lemon Smash
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup strawberries chopped
- 1/2 shot freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1/2 lemon)
- 1 shot limoncello
- 1 shot gin or vodka
- ice
- tonic water or club soda to taste
- lemon wedge for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker or small jar, muddle together the strawberries and lemon juice until the strawberries have broken and released their juices– about 30 seconds.
- Add the limoncello, gin, and ice to the muddled strawberries. Gently shake to combine.
- Strain half of the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice. Top with tonic water and a lemon wedge. Repeat with the second drink and serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
Leave a Reply