Italian Mojitos are made with fresh basil, lime juice, and of course vodka! Such a fun and pretty cocktail just begging to be made this Summer. Basil replaces the traditional mint for one delicious recipe variation!
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Basil Mojito Recipe
Mojitos. There’s just something about mojitos. The fresh mint, zing of the lime juice, and sweet after notes from the simple syrup. But I happen to be a basil girl.
So why can’t mojito cocktails be made with fresh basil instead of fresh mint? Well, it turns out they can. And its super delicious!
These Italian mojitos still have the fresh and bold flavors of a traditional mojito, but the basil has a peppery sweetness to it that I just can’t resist!
Be sure to try my Coconut Mojitos and Mojito Pitcher too!
Why you will love this recipe!
- Quick and easy: It takes less than 10 minutes to make 4 of these drinks as you mix everything together in a pitcher.
- Make ahead: This is a great option if you are entertaining as several elements of this drink can be made ahead of time.
- So refreshing: This Italian mojito is all kinds of delicious. Fresh and zingy, the basil and lime flavors work so well together.
How to make an Italian Mojito
Be sure to scroll down for the full recipe!
- Combine the simple syrup, club soda, lime juice, and vodka in a pitcher.
- Muddle together lime and basil leaves with ice in each glass.
- Pour, garnish and enjoy!
Can you make it ahead if time?
These basil mojitos are best enjoyed as soon as they are poured, but you can certainly prep them ahead of time.
Simple sugar will keep well in the fridge for up to a month, I often have a big batch waiting for use! The pitcher can also be mixed a day or two ahead of time and kept covered in the fridge.
Can you make it with another spirit?
I used a lime basil vodka that works wonderfully with the other flavors in this cocktail. You can just use plain vodka, it will still be delicious. White rum is traditionally used in a mojito, so you can use that instead, or mix it up with some gin if you fancy.
How to garnish
These Italian mojitos are so fresh and vibrant, you don’t need to go overboard with garnishes. A wedge of lime and a fresh basil leaf and you are good to go.
Recipe Notes and Tips
- Use fresh lime juice for these Italian basil mojitos. Bottled juice is so much less zingy and can taste quite artificial.
- Try adding a couple of slices of cucumber to your glass for a real burst of summer flavors.
These Italian Mojitos are sure to take away your Monday Blues, perfectly fresh and zingy, every sip is truly delicious!
More Easy Cocktails
Italian Mojitos (Basil + Lime)
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups simple syrup heat 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 5 minutes
- 1 cup Pearl Lime Basil Vodka you can use regular good quality vodka, but trust me this is delish!!
- Juice from 3 limes
- 1 cup club soda chilled
- Ice
- Fresh basil and lime slices for garnish
Instructions
- In a pitcher, combine simple syrup, club soda, lime juice, and vodka. Stir to combine.
- Prepare each glass by placing a lime wedge and a couple leaves fresh basil in the bottom. Cover with ice. (if not using Lime Basil Vodka, muddle the lime wedge and basil leaves to release some of the flavor. this isn’t necessary if using the Lime Basil Vodka)
- Pour mojitos over ice and serve! Enjoy!
- Garnish with more basil and lime wedges if desired.
Last step! Don’t forget to show me a pic of what you made! Upload an image or tag me @thecookierookie on Instagram!
Becky’s tips
- Use fresh lime juice for these Italian basil mojitos. Bottled juice is so much less zingy and can taste quite artificial.
- Try adding a couple of slices of cucumber to your glass for a real burst of summer flavors.
Nutrition Information
Hi Becky, wow these photos are high quality. They really helped to bring out the stunning looks of the Italian Mojitos. Shouldn’t I try this when I have more time?
Looks so beautiful. I can’t wait to try it! Thanks for adding these beautiful images as well.
Thank you!!
look so delicious and beautiful picture, pined :D
Thanks so much Victoria!
This recipe is amazing. We love your blog! Are you interested in becoming a recipe partner?
Thank you so much!!!
Never been a huge fan of mojitos, but these look SO refreshing!! I totally have a black thumb too – I feel your pain, good luck with the herb garden!! :D
Thanks Erica! I appreciate you stopping by!
What a fun idea you have here! I even love how you used crushed ice. So tasty!
Thanks so much Shelby!
This is such a great recipe, Becky! I love the basil addition, and your photos are beautiful as always. I’m going to try this Italian spin on one of my favorites soon!
Thanks Andi. Means a lot :)
I have started to love mojitos this year…and sadly making virgin every chance I get. That way I feel like I am enjoying a cocktail rather than just water…ha. Best of luck with growing herbs. I want to so bad! Maybe I will get going and try it this year too!
Ha…you will get a chance again soon! Thanks Meg!
So, after reading the first few lines of your post, I thought, crap! I haven’t watered my potted herbs yet! I guess I have a black thumb just like you, hah! I love drinking mojitos but I really need to start making them at home! Thanks for the recipe!
Ha, I feel you Lisa!! Thanks so much for stopping by!
Ooh! This looks so refreshing and DELICIOUS!
Thank you so much Sheryl!