Berry-Basil Puree

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the Berry-Basil Puree that’s completely transformed my mocktail game! I first created this while trying to come up with something special for the Virgin Pink Paradise, and now I can’t imagine my drink repertoire without it. It’s also become the star of the Blackberry-Thyme Sparkler that everyone keeps requesting at gatherings.

Here’s a little secret – the magic is all in how you handle the basil. The first time I made this, I threw everything in the blender at once and ended up with what tasted like a garden smoothie (not exactly what we’re going for!). Now I know to blend the berries first, then gently incorporate the basil to release those gorgeous aromatic oils without overpowering the fruit.

You know that moment when you’re making something and you just know it’s going to be good? That’s what happens when you see the deep purple-red color of this puree coming together. And the smell! The sweet berry fragrance with that hint of herbal freshness from the basil – it’s absolutely intoxicating. Sometimes I catch myself just standing in the kitchen, taking in that amazing aroma.

I love watching people’s reactions when they try the Virgin Pink Paradise for the first time. There’s always this moment of surprise when they realize it’s not just another fruit drink. The basil adds this sophisticated note that makes people stop and really appreciate what they’re tasting.

Berry-Basil Puree

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Berry-Basil Puree is a vibrant, herbaceous blend that combines the sweet, juicy complexity of mixed berries with the bright, peppery notes of fresh basil, creating a lush and unexpected flavor profile.

• Author: Don Nicholas
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 2 cups
• Category: Beverages

Ingredients

• 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blackberries)
• 10 fresh basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon honey

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Instructions

1. Blend berries until smooth
2. Add basil and honey, blend again
3. Strain if desired
4. Store up to 3 days

Notes

• Use ripe berries at room temperature
• Adjust honey based on berry sweetness
• Fine strain for smoother texture

Have you tried making this puree yet? I’d love to hear which berries you used and how it turned out! Drop a comment below and share your berry-basil adventures – and definitely let me know if you’ve discovered any other amazing combinations. Maybe you’ve created a drink that I need to try!