Spring has sprung, and what better way to celebrate the season of sunshine and fresh flavours than with a delicious cocktail? Introducing the Strawberry Basil Margarita, a refreshing twist on the classic margarita that’s bursting with fruity sweetness and herby goodness. So grab your cocktail shaker and let’s get mixing!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz tequila
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz strawberry syrup or muddled strawberries
• 3-4 fresh basil leaves
• Salt for rimming (optional)
• Fresh strawberry slices and basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Glass: If you like, rim your glass with salt for that classic margarita touch. Simply run a lime wedge around the rim of the glass, then dip it into a plate of salt until evenly coated.

2. Muddle the Basil: In a cocktail shaker, gently muddle the fresh basil leaves to release their aromatic oils and flavours. This step adds a fragrant herbaceous note to your margarita that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the strawberries.

3. Add the Good Stuff: Pour in the tequila, fresh lime juice, and strawberry syrup (or muddled strawberries) into the shaker with the muddled basil. If you’re using fresh strawberries, give them a gentle muddle as well to extract their juicy goodness.

4. Shake it Up: Fill the shaker with ice, then shake vigorously until well-chilled and thoroughly mixed. This will help meld all the flavours together and create a perfectly refreshing cocktail.

5. Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into your prepared glass filled with ice. If you like, you can double-strain to remove any bits of basil or strawberry pulp for a smoother drink.

6. Garnish and Enjoy: Finish off your Strawberry Basil Margarita with a slice of fresh strawberry and a sprig of basil for a pop of colour and freshness. Then, sit back, relax, and savour every sip of this delightful springtime cocktail!

For an extra kick of flavour, try adding a splash of sparkling water or ginger beer for some effervescent fun.