A recipe for a refreshing, brightly colored, delicious cocktail (or mocktail) using red grapefruit, fresh basil and a grapefruit soda. This Grapefruit Basil Vodka Smash is the perfect drink for a hot summer evening or a crisp winters day.
Cut your grapefruit roughly into eighths. Trim two sections off the rind and trim any extra pith (white stuff) and chop into small cubes. Place 2 sections (cubed) into glass and using muddler gently press until you have smashed the grapefruit and released the juices.
Add basil and gently muddle if desired. Pour in vodka (omit for mocktail). Fill glass with ice, then pour grapefruit soda, club soda or lemon-lime drink to fill. Gently stir. Garnish with slice of grapefruit and a sprig of fresh basil.
Notes
SUBSTITUTES Any juicy grapefruit will work, or try an orange, or blood orange. If you cannot find Q Grapefruit soda, try using Tonic Water, Club Soda, Lemon-Lime Soda, Sparkling Water or your favorite Grapefruit soda. You can also try using thyme, mint, or rosemary in place of the basil.