Basil Mango Smash

I remember the first time I tried combining basil and mango in a drink—it was a game changer. Basil, being such a fresh and aromatic herb, was always my go-to for experimenting with cocktails, but I wanted to pair it with something unexpected.

Mango seemed the perfect choice because it’s naturally sweet and tropical, yet light enough not to overwhelm the basil.

While this cocktail isn’t a classic, it’s the kind of drink that became popular at the bar simply because it’s fun, refreshing, and unexpected.

I started making it as a special, and people loved how the herbiness of the basil balanced the sweet mango. Over time, it turned into a go-to summer favorite.

Flavor Profile

This cocktail strikes a perfect balance between the sweetness of mango and the earthy, slightly peppery flavor of basil.

The tangy lime juice adds a refreshing zing, and the club soda brings a light, effervescent finish. It’s not too sweet or sour, making it easy to drink and refreshing.

• Taste: Sweet, tangy, and herbal
• Texture: Smooth with a crisp, bubbly finish
• Sweetness: Balanced with a bright herbal note

Food Pairings

If you’re sipping on a Basil Mango Smash, I recommend pairing it with light, flavorful dishes that bring out its tropical and herbal notes:

• Grilled shrimp with mango salsa
• Fresh ceviche with citrus and cilantro
• Grilled fish tacos with lime and avocado
• Caprese salad with fresh basil and mozzarella
• Light appetizers like hummus or goat cheese with fruit

Similar Drinks

If the Basil Mango Smash sounds like your kind of drink, some of my favorite similar cocktails might catch your interest as well:

1. Basil Mango Mojito – A twist on the classic mojito, swapping mint for basil and adding mango for an even fruitier take.
2. Pineapple Basil Smash – Pineapple brings a bright citrus edge to the basil’s herbal flavors, making for a refreshing smash.
3. Tropical Gin Basil Smash – Gin brings a botanical depth to the mango and basil, perfect for gin lovers.
4. Mango Cucumber Cooler – If you prefer a lighter, more crisp drink, this one combines mango with cool cucumber.
5. Strawberry Basil Mule – A fun variation on the Moscow mule, adding fresh strawberries and basil for a fruity, herbaceous finish.
6. Lime Basil Mojito – A simple, classic mojito with basil instead of mint, perfect if you want a refreshing cocktail with a bit of bite.
7. Ginger Peach Smash – This one’s a little spicier, combining peaches and ginger for a warm, aromatic twist on the smash.