How to make a Pineapple Basil Smash?

Pineapple Basil Smash

A refreshing tropical cocktail that combines the sweet, juicy flavor of pineapple with the fresh, aromatic note of basil. This smash is perfect for summer evenings or gatherings, offering a lightly foamy, invigorating experience that will appeal to everyone. With our tips from Cookinglife you can easily make this drink at home for a moment full of flavor and fun – because at Cookinglife it's all about 'flavorful living'!

Ingredients (for 1 cocktail):

• 50 ml white rum (or another clear spirit
• such as vodka for a non-alcoholic option)
• 60 ml fresh pineapple juice (use freshly pressed for the best flavor)
• 10 fresh basil leaves
• 15 ml fresh lime juice
• 10 ml simple syrup (make your own with 50 g sugar and 50 ml water, or see variations)
• 100 ml sparkling water (for a light refreshment)
• A handful of ice cubes
• Garnish: 1 pineapple leaf or a sprig of fresh basil

Instructions:

1. Take the 10 fresh basil leaves and gently bruise them with the back of a spoon in a cocktail shaker to release their oils without causing bitterness.
2. Add the 50 ml white rum, 60 ml fresh pineapple juice, 15 ml fresh lime juice and 10 ml simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Add a handful of ice cubes and shake the shaker vigorously for 15–20 seconds for a foamy finish.
4. Strain the contents of the shaker into a tall glass filled with fresh ice cubes.
5. Add about 100 ml sparkling water for an extra lift and light bubbles.
6. Garnish the cocktail with a pineapple leaf or a sprig of fresh basil for a visually appealing touch, and serve immediately.

Tips and variations from Cookinglife:

At Cookinglife we believe in adjustments that fit your lifestyle, so you can always enjoy 'healthy and tasty living'! For a unique twist on this Pineapple Basil Smash:

• Sugar-free option: Replace the simple syrup with a sugar substitute like stevia (about 5 ml liquid stevia) to keep the sweetness without extra calories – ideal for a lighter version.
• Gluten-free variant: This cocktail is naturally gluten-free, but always check your spirit for cross-contamination. Use gluten-free alcohol or make it alcohol-free by replacing the rum with extra pineapple juice or herbal tea.
• Low-salt alternative: This recipe doesn't require salt, but if you want a salty rim, use a very small amount (less than 1 g) of sea salt – or skip it for a completely salt-free version.

Enjoy this refreshing creation and experiment to add your own signature twist. Cheers to tasty moments, brought to you by Cookinglife – where every meal or drink becomes an adventure!