Pomegranate Basil Fizz (Mocktail or Cocktail!)

This Pomegranate Basil Fizz is a vibrant, sparkling drink that brings together the tang of fresh pomegranate juice and the aromatic sweetness of basil. It’s refreshing, lightly herbal and feels like something you’d sip on an Italian terrace. Whether you make it a mocktail with sparkling water or a proper cocktail with prosecco, it’s a showstopper for any occasion - especially those late summer celebrations or fall festivities.

Why You'll Love It

• Fresh and crisp. This is the perfect blend for an herby and not-so-sweet drink.
• Ideal for summer gatherings or cozy holidays. Now that's versatile!
• Easy to make ahead of time. Ideal for prepping ahead of time in batches.
• Adaptable. Make the base for the drink and then have guests decide if they'd like this as a mocktail or cocktail.

Ingredients You'll Need

• Pomegranate juice. Use fresh or 100% pure juice for deep flavor and color.
• Lemon juice. Adds brightness and balances sweetness.
• Honey. Sweetens naturally while adding floral notes.
• Fresh basil leaves. Muddled to release aroma and herbal freshness.
• Sparkling water or prosecco. Adds fizz and effervescence - plus, you get to decide if you want to make this as a mocktail or cocktail!
• Pomegranate arils. For garnish and crunch.
• Ice. To keep the drink chilled.

Scroll to the recipe card below to find the remaining ingredients and quantities! 

Substitutions

• For the honey. Use agave or even basil simple syrup for a swap that'll bring out the basil flavor in this drink.
• For the sparkling water or prosecco. Experiment with your favorite flavored sparkling water for added depth of flavor (try mint or lemon flavor!)
• For the basil leaves. Use mint instead for a brighter herbal flavor.
• For the pomegranate juice. Swap pomegranate for cranberry juice for a more tart version.

Variations

• Boozy twist. If you make this as a cocktail, add in 1 oz gin or vodka for a extra kick.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker.
• Muddler.
• Cocktail strainer.
• Two tall glasses.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Muddle basil leaves and honey together in a cocktail shaker until fragrant.

Step 2: Add pomegranate juice, lemon juice and a handful of ice. Shake well for 10–15 seconds.

Step 3: Strain into two glasses filled with ice.

Step 4: Top each glass with sparkling water (for mocktail) or prosecco (for cocktail).

Step 5: Garnish with basil and a few pomegranate arils.

Making Ahead

Make the pomegranate-basil base up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate. Add sparkling water or prosecco just before serving to maintain the fizz.

What to Pair with this Drink

• Serve this drink with another favorite, this strawberry basil lemonade.
• A cocktail party isn't complete without some appetizers! Serve this drink at your next one alongside crostini with whipped ricotta and truffle honey or even this easy ricotta dip with sun-dried tomato and basil.
• Accompany this drink with a main pasta like this creamy parmesan pasta with peas and prosciutto.

FAQ

Tips and Tricks

• Use crushed ice for a smoother sip.
• If using prosecco, opt for a brut style to keep balance within the drink.

Did you try out this recipe? I'd love to know how it went! Leave me a comment and rating below or tag me on Instagram at @AFabulousBite!

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