Mango Basil Lemon Juice Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1 cup lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
• 4 cups cold water
• 1/2 cup honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
• Ice cubes (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a blender, combine the chopped mangoes and basil leaves. Blend until smooth. The sweet fragrance of mangoes and the herbal aroma of basil will start to fill the air.
2. Pour the mango-basil mixture into a large jug. Squeeze in the lemon juice, allowing the tangy aroma of freshly squeezed citrus to mix with the sweetness.
3. Add the cold water and stir in the honey or sugar. Mix well until the sweetener is completely dissolved.
4. Taste the juice and adjust the sweetness or lemon juice if needed. Stir once more to ensure everything is perfectly blended.
5. Serve the juice in chilled glasses with ice cubes for that extra refreshing touch. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.

Helpful Tips and Variations

• Substitute honey with agave syrup or stevia for a different sweetness profile.
• For an extra twist, add a splash of sparkling water just before serving to introduce a fizzy element to your drink.
• Perfect for summer parties: serve in a large punch bowl and add some frozen fruit pieces for extra flair.

Storage and Substitutions

• Store any leftover juice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving again.
• If fresh mangoes are not available, use frozen mango chunks or mango puree.
• For a seasonal variation, try substituting basil with mint leaves for a different herbal note.

Pairings and Complements

• Pairs beautifully with light salads, fresh fruit platters, or finger sandwiches.
• Try it with a side of crunchy vegetable sticks and hummus for a balanced snack.
• Excellent match for grilled chicken or fish dishes, offering a sweet and tangy contrast.