Classic meets garden-fresh in the Basil Lemongrass Gimlet, where bright citrus, botanical gin, and fragrant herbs work together to deliver the ultimate summer cocktail. Adding lemongrass tea and muddled basil turns the traditional gimlet into a refreshing drink bursting with aromatic layers. Perfect for patio evenings, lively gatherings, or a quiet treat at the end of the day.
Why You’ll Love the Basil Lemongrass Gimlet
This riff on the classic swaps out plain lime for a citrus-herbal medley. Lemongrass brings gentle, spa-like freshness, basil adds peppery green notes, and honey simple syrup lends round sweetness. Finished in a martini or old-fashioned glass with a basil leaf, it’s elegance and garden flair in every sip.
🍸 Basil Lemongrass Gimlet Recipe
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 10 minutes (includes tea steeping and chilling)
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 pyramid tea bag or 1 tsp loose lemongrass herbal infusion
- 12 fresh basil leaves (plus 2 for garnish)
- Juice from 1 lime
- 2 tbsp honey simple syrup
- 3 oz gin
- Ice
Preparation Steps
- Brew the Tea: Steep the lemongrass tea bag or loose leaves in 8 oz boiling water for 5 minutes, then cool in the fridge until cold.
- Muddle Basil: Add 12 basil leaves and lime juice to a cocktail shaker, then muddle well to release the basil’s aroma.
- Shake: Add chilled lemongrass tea, honey simple syrup, gin, and ice. Shake vigorously until icy and well-mixed.
- Strain & Serve: Strain into 2 martini or old-fashioned glasses.
- Garnish: Add a fresh basil leaf to each glass.
Pro Tip: Can’t find lemongrass tea? Use regular herbal tea with a splash of fresh lemongrass juice or syrup.
✨ Variations & Tips
- Swap gin for vodka for a softer, more neutral base.
- Add cucumber slices to the shaker for an even more refreshing take.
- Spice it up with a crack of black pepper or a slice of jalapeño before shaking.
- Make it non-alcoholic by skipping gin and adding more chilled lemongrass tea.
Garden-to-Glass Refreshment
With its distinct herbal pop and cooling citrus backbone, the Basil Lemongrass Gimlet turns any ordinary moment into a summery celebration. Sip, savor, and let the botanical flavors transport you from city living to sunlit gardens in each glass. Cheers!