Vodka Pineapple Basil Smash Cocktail: A Refreshing Summer Delight

Elevate your summer gatherings with this Vodka Pineapple Basil Smash Cocktail—a vibrant and refreshing drink that combines muddled pineapple, fresh basil, and a hint of citrus. With its herbal twist from basil simple syrup and a splash of soda water, this cocktail is perfect for sipping on a sunny day.

Ingredients:

For the Cocktail:

• 3 tablespoons diced fresh pineapple
• 2-3 tablespoons sliced fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon basil simple syrup (see notes for recipe)
• 2 oz vodka (Pau Maui Vodka recommended)
• 2 oz fresh pineapple juice
• ½ oz fresh Meyer lemon juice
• Few dashes of citrus bitters
• Optional: soda water

For Garnish:

• Fresh basil
• Meyer lemon slice
• Pineapple leaf
• Paper straw

Instructions:

1️⃣ Muddle the Ingredients:

• In a tall Collins glass, muddle 2 tablespoons of diced pineapple with 1 tablespoon of sliced basil. Add the basil simple syrup and stir to combine.

2️⃣ Add Ice and More Ingredients:

• Fill the glass halfway with ice. Add the remaining diced pineapple and sliced basil, then top with more ice to fill the glass.

3️⃣ Shake the Cocktail:

• In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, fresh pineapple juice, Meyer lemon juice, and citrus bitters. Shake well, then pour the mixture into the prepared glass. Add more ice if needed.

4️⃣ Optional Fizz:

• For a fizzy touch, leave some space in the glass and top it off with 1 oz of soda water.

5️⃣ Garnish and Serve:

• Garnish with fresh basil, a Meyer lemon slice, a pineapple leaf, and a paper straw. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes:

• Basil Simple Syrup Recipe:
  • Combine 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of water, and 2 cups of fresh basil leaves in a saucepan over medium heat. Smash the basil leaves while stirring to dissolve the sugar. Bring to a simmer for 5 minutes, then turn off the heat. Let the mixture infuse for 1 hour, strain, and cool completely before use. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

This Vodka Pineapple Basil Smash Cocktail is the perfect way to enjoy a refreshing and flavorful drink this summer. The combination of tropical pineapple, aromatic basil, and zesty citrus makes it a standout choice for any occasion. Cheers to vibrant flavors and sunny days! 🍹🍍