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Lemon Basil Vodka Collins - Bright, Herbal, and Refreshingly Simple

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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Vodka: A clean, mid-range bottle is great; no need to splurge.
  • Fresh lemon juice: About 1–2 lemons, depending on size.
  • Simple syrup: Store-bought or homemade (equal parts sugar and water).
  • Fresh basil leaves: Choose bright, fragrant leaves.
  • Club soda: Chilled for best fizz.
  • Ice: Cubes or clear ice if you have it.
  • Optional garnishes: Lemon wheel, basil sprig.

Method
 

  1. Chill your glass: Place a Collins or highball glass in the freezer while you prep. A cold glass keeps the bubbles lively.
  2. Prep the basil and lemon: Gently slap 4–6 basil leaves between your palms to release their aroma. Squeeze fresh lemon juice and strain out seeds.
  3. Muddle with care: In a shaker, add the basil, 3/4 ounce simple syrup, and 1 ounce lemon juice. Use a light touch to muddle—just press and twist a few times. You want fragrance, not shredded leaves.
  4. Add vodka and ice: Pour in 2 ounces vodka. Fill the shaker with ice and shake for 8–10 seconds to chill without over-diluting.
  5. Strain into glass: Fill your chilled Collins glass with fresh ice. Double-strain the mixture into the glass to keep out basil bits for a clean look and taste.
  6. Top with club soda: Add 2–3 ounces club soda, depending on how strong or bubbly you prefer. Stir gently to combine.
  7. Garnish and serve: Add a lemon wheel and a basil sprig. Sip right away while it’s cold and fizzy.