Strawberries are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making them excellent ingredients for refreshing and healthy drinks. Whether you prefer a smoothie, a cocktail, or a mocktail, there are countless strawberry-based drinks to choose from.
Strawberry Drinks and Their Origin
The origin of strawberry drinks can be traced back to the ancient Roman Empire, where strawberries were first cultivated for their medicinal properties. The berries were believed to have healing powers and were used to treat a variety of ailments. Over time, people began to experiment with different ways to consume strawberries, including in drinks. In the 16th century, the first recorded recipe for a strawberry-based drink appeared in a cookbook published in England. The recipe called for strawberries to be crushed and mixed with sugar and water, creating a sweet and refreshing beverage that quickly became popular. Since then, strawberry drinks have evolved and taken on many different forms, from classic smoothies and milkshakes to sophisticated cocktails and shrubs.
1. Strawberry-Banana Smoothie
This classic smoothie combines the sweetness of strawberries with the creaminess of banana and yogurt for a refreshing and satisfying drink. To make it, blend together 1 cup of fresh or frozen strawberries, 1 sliced banana, 1/2 cup of plain yogurt, and 1/2 cup of milk until smooth. Add honey or sugar to taste, if desired.
- Taste: Sweet and creamy
- Total time: 5 minutes
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Calories per serving: 200
2. Strawberry-Lemonade Spritzer
This fizzy and tart drink is perfect for a summer day. To make it, mix together 1 cup of fresh or frozen strawberries, 1 cup of lemonade, and 1 cup of sparkling water. Add ice and fresh mint leaves for extra freshness.
- Taste: Tart and refreshing
- Total time: 5 minutes
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Calories per serving: 70
3. Strawberry Mojito
This strawberry twist on the classic mojito is a fruity and refreshing cocktail that's perfect for a night out or a party. To make it, muddle together 1/2 cup of fresh strawberries, 1/4 cup of fresh mint leaves, and 1 tablespoon of sugar in a cocktail shaker. Add ice, 60 ml of white rum, and the juice of half a lime. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. Top with soda water and garnish with mint and strawberry.
- Taste: Sweet and tangy
- Total time: 10 minutes
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Calories per serving: 150
4. Strawberry-Kiwi Smoothie Bowl
This colorful and nutritious smoothie bowl is perfect for breakfast or a snack. To make it, blend together 1 cup of fresh or frozen strawberries, 1 peeled and sliced kiwi, 1/2 cup of plain yogurt, and 1/4 cup of milk until smooth. Pour into a bowl and top with granola, sliced fruit, and honey.
- Taste: Sweet and tangy
- Total time: 10 minutes
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Calories per serving: 250
5. Strawberry-Basil Lemonade
This sophisticated lemonade is infused with the flavors of fresh strawberries and basil. To make it, blend together 1 cup of fresh or frozen strawberries and 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves with 1 cup of lemonade. Strain the mixture into a pitcher and add 3 cups of water. Serve over ice and garnish with fresh basil and lemon slices.
- Taste: Sweet and herbal
- Total time: 10 minutes
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Calories per serving: 80
6. Strawberry-Coconut Smoothie
This tropical smoothie combines the sweetness of strawberries with the richness of coconut milk for a creamy and satisfying drink. To make it, blend together 1 cup of fresh or frozen strawberries, 1/2 cup of coconut milk, 1/2 cup of plain yogurt, and 1/4 cup of honey. Add ice and blend again until smooth.
- Taste: Creamy and sweet
- Total time: 5 minutes
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Calories per serving: 250
7. Strawberry Margarita
This strawberry-infused margarita is a fruity and festive cocktail that's perfect for a party or a weekend treat. To make it, blend together 1 cup of fresh or frozen strawberries, 60 ml of tequila, 30 ml of lime juice, and 15 ml of triple sec with ice until smooth. Rim a glass with salt, pour in the mixture, and garnish with a strawberry and a lime wedge.
- Taste: Sweet and tangy
- Total time: 10 minutes
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Calories per serving: 200
8. Strawberry-Balsamic Shrub
This tangy and slightly sweet shrub is a unique and refreshing drink that's perfect for a hot day. To make it, mix together 1 cup of fresh or frozen strawberries, 1/2 cup of balsamic vinegar, and 1/4 cup of sugar in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the strawberries break down, stirring occasionally. Let cool, then strain the mixture into a jar or bottle. Mix 1-2 tablespoons of the shrub with sparkling water and ice for a drink.
- Taste: Tangy and slightly sweet
- Total time: 20 minutes
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Calories per serving: 50
9. Strawberry-Coconut Margarita
This tropical and creamy margarita is a delicious and refreshing drink that's perfect for a summer party. To make it, blend together 1 cup of fresh or frozen strawberries, 60 ml of tequila, 1/2 cup of coconut cream, 1/2 cup of coconut water, and 30 ml of lime juice with ice until smooth. Rim a glass with sugar, pour in the mixture, and garnish with a strawberry and a lime wedge.
- Taste: Creamy and sweet
- Total time: 10 minutes
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Calories per serving: 250
10. Strawberry-Cucumber Refresher
This crisp and refreshing drink is perfect for a hot day or a post-workout treat. To make it, blend together 1 cup of fresh or frozen strawberries, 1/2 cup of diced cucumber, 1/4 cup of fresh mint leaves, and 1 cup of coconut water until smooth. Pour into a glass with ice and garnish with a cucumber slice and mint leaves.
- Taste: Fresh and crisp
- Total time: 10 minutes
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Calories per serving: 70
What to Serve with These Strawberry Drink Recipes
When it comes to serving these strawberry-based drinks, there are a few options depending on the occasion. For a casual gathering or a summer barbecue, you could serve some light snacks such as fresh fruit, veggie sticks with dip, or a cheese platter. If you're hosting a more formal event, consider pairing the drinks with some hors d'oeuvres like bruschetta, crostini, or mini quiches. Another great option is to pair the drinks with a light meal like a salad, sandwich, or sushi roll. Whatever you choose, make sure it complements the flavors and textures of the drinks for a well-rounded and enjoyable dining experience.