These are fresh and not too sweet, which is exactly what I’m looking for when I reach for a mocktail. Just because the drink doesn’t contain alcohol doesn’t mean that I’m looking for a sugar bomb. The basil provides an extra layer of complexity in the flavour.

If you can, I highly recommend fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice for this drink. If you really don’t have that option, then make sure to use unsweetened grapefruit juice rather than grapefruit cocktail.

Hands-on time: 5 minutes

Total time: 5 minutes

Ingredients (makes 2):

• 4 oz grapefruit juice
• 1-2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 4 oz club soda
• 4 basil leaves
• grapefruit slices (optional – for garnish)
• ice for serving

Directions:

1. Combine grapefruit juice (3 oz) and simple syrup (1-2oz)
2. Add 2 basil leaves and muddle (stir strongly enough that you bruise the leaves a bit to release the flavour)
3. Pour into 2 glasses over ice
4. Add 2 oz club soda to each glass
5. Garnish with remaining basil leaves and grapefruit slices