Written by Susan — Quit drinking at 37 • Sober since 1998 • Sharing what actually works

Written by Susan — Quit drinking at 37 • Sober since 1998 • Sharing what actually works

Citrus Basil Sparkler Mocktail Recipe

This citrus basil sparkler mocktail combines orange juice, lemon juice, and sparkling water with fresh basil. It’s a tart, bubbly drink with a gentle herbal flavor—and it takes about 10 minutes to prepare.

Serve it over ice with lunch, make a small pitcher for friends, or enjoy it as an alcohol-free drink in the evening. Orange and lemon slices add a simple finishing touch.

Ingredients

Makes: 4 small servings, or 2 larger servings
Preparation time: About 10 minutes

• 1 cup fresh orange juice
• ½ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup chilled plain sparkling water
• 8 medium fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
• Orange and lemon slices, for garnish
• Ice cubes

How to Make Your Citrus Basil Sparkler

1. Prepare the basil. Rinse the basil leaves. Put them into a pitcher with a little of the orange juice and press gently with the back of a wooden spoon. Avoid grinding or shredding them.
2. Mix the citrus juices. Add the remaining orange juice and the lemon juice. Stir, then taste. The mixture will be quite tart before you add the sparkling water.
3. Prepare the glasses. Fill four small glasses—or two larger glasses—with ice cubes.
4. Add the sparkle. Slowly pour the chilled sparkling water into the pitcher and stir gently to preserve the bubbles.
5. Pour and garnish. Divide the drink among the glasses. Add orange or lemon slices and a fresh basil leaf to each glass, then serve immediately.

Adjust It to Your Taste

Prefer a gentler citrus flavor? Start with ¼ cup lemon juice instead of ½ cup, then add more to taste.

Want a sweeter drink? Stir a little plain simple syrup into the juice mixture before adding the sparkling water. Start with a teaspoon and taste before adding more.

Prefer a lighter drink? Add extra sparkling water to soften the tartness and make the drink less concentrated.

Want fewer bits? Strain the citrus and basil mixture before adding the sparkling water.

Making It Ahead

Mix the orange and lemon juices ahead and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Press in the basil shortly before serving, then add the sparkling water and pour over ice.

Keep the sparkling water separate until you’re ready to serve so the drink retains its fizz.

Explore More Easy Mocktail Recipes →

Frequently Asked Questions