Strawberry Basil Smash Cocktail: An Aussie Delight For Any Occasion

The Perfect Strawberry Basil Smash Cocktail Recipe: A Refreshing Blend for Your Summer Evenings

I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades.
The past 15 years, I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavour combinations, and learned a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.

Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner who is eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide.

In the blog below, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets. I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests.

So, grab your shaker, dust off your favourite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending!
Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

A Modern Smash: Where It All Began

The “Smash” cocktail has roots in the 19th century — traditionally whiskey, mint, sugar, and ice muddled together for a refreshing serve. Over the years, bartenders played with the template, adding fruits, herbs, and new spirits.

The Strawberry Basil Smash is one of those modern evolutions — ripe strawberries for natural sweetness, basil for aromatic lift, citrus for balance, and your choice of spirit (gin, vodka, or even rum).

Simple. Seasonal. And endlessly versatile.

Why the Strawberry Basil Smash Works in Australia

Seasonal ingredients: Australia’s climate produces world-class strawberries and basil — juicy, fragrant, and perfect in summer.
Refreshing profile: Light, citrusy, and herbaceous, this cocktail suits hot afternoons, barbecues, and sundowners.
Spirit flexibility: Works with gin (for botanicals), vodka (for clean balance), or white rum (for tropical vibes).
Celebrates local produce: Choosing Aussie spirits and fruit supports local makers and farmers.

Strawberry Basil Smash Recipe (AU Measurements)

Ingredients

6–8 fresh strawberries (Queensland or Victorian when in season)
5–6 fresh basil leaves
60 ml (2 oz) Australian gin or vodka
- Try Four Pillars Rare Dry Gin, Brookie’s Byron Dry, or Vantage Vodka
15 ml (0.5 oz) fresh lime juice
15 ml (0.5 oz) simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water) — or local honey for an Aussie twist
Soda water or lemonade (optional, to top)
Crushed ice
Garnish: basil sprig + strawberry slice

Method

Muddle: In a shaker, gently crush strawberries, basil, and simple syrup.
Add spirit + citrus: Pour in gin or vodka, plus lime juice.
Shake: Fill with ice and shake hard for 15–20 seconds.
Strain: Pour into a glass over crushed ice.
Optional fizz: Top with soda or lemonade for light bubbles.
Garnish: Finish with basil sprig and strawberry slice.

Why This Mix Sings

Strawberries: Natural sweetness and freshness — peak season Sept–Nov.
Basil: Peppery, aromatic lift that adds depth.
Spirit: Gin brings botanicals; vodka lets fruit + herb shine.
Citrus: Lime cuts through sweetness and balances the drink.
Optional fizz: Light bubbles keep it summery and easy to sip.

Food Pairings

The Strawberry Basil Smash shines with fresh, vibrant fare:

Salads: Goat cheese, mixed greens, balsamic drizzle.
Seafood: Grilled prawns, scallops, or fish with lemon + herbs.
Cheese board: Brie, camembert, honey, strawberries, and nuts.
Desserts: Lemon sorbet, panna cotta, or vanilla ice cream with berries.
Charcuterie: Prosciutto, salami, melon, and crusty bread.

Variations to Try

Strawberry Mint Smash: Swap basil for mint for a classic approach.
Spicy Smash: Add jalapeño slice or chilli vodka for heat.
Fizzed Smash: Top with tonic or champagne for party sparkle.
Frozen Smash: Blend with ice for a slushy serve.
Mocktail Smash: Skip spirits, add more soda/lemonade.

Responsible Enjoyment

The Strawberry Basil Smash is refreshing, but it still carries standard spirit measures. Under Australian RSA:

1 serve = 30 ml spirit = 1 standard drink.
Provide food and water alongside cocktails.
Encourage guests to sip slowly, not slam.

For more: Liquor & Gaming NSW.

The Final Smash

The Strawberry Basil Smash is the kind of cocktail that ticks all the boxes: fresh, fruity, seasonal, and flexible. With just a few local ingredients and a shaker, you’ll have a glass of pure Aussie summer in your hand.

So grab some strawberries, pluck basil from the garden, and shake up a drink that’s equal parts refreshing and sophisticated. Cheers to fresh flavours, good times, and cocktails that celebrate the best of Australia!

Thanks for joining us behind the bar!

The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve.

I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below.
What are you shaking up these days? What topics would you like to see covered in future posts?

Let’s connect and continue the conversation!

Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: Liquor & Gaming NSW