Orange-Basil Gin Gimlet

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-07-02 · Updated 2026-07-02

A refreshing twist on the classic gimlet featuring bright citrus and aromatic basil for a vibrant, herbaceous cocktail. This recipe, ready in about 5 minutes, brings together gin, fresh lime juice, and orange liqueur for a refreshing, crowd-pleasing drink — a bright, easy pour for parties, gatherings, or any warm-weather afternoon when you want something festive without alcohol-only options. Each serving lands at about 160 calories and feeds 1, so it works for entertaining, brunch, or a non-alcoholic option at the bar cart. Tap "Add this recipe to your weekly plan" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 3/4 oz orange liqueur
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 5 fresh basil leaves
• enough for shaking and serving ice cubes
• 1 sprig for garnish basil sprig
• 1 twist for garnish orange twist

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Instructions

1. Step 1: In a cocktail shaker, gently muddle 5 fresh basil leaves with 1/2 oz simple syrup to release the herb's aroma.
2. Step 2: Add 2 oz gin, 1 oz fresh lime juice, and 3/4 oz orange liqueur to the shaker.
3. Step 3: Fill the shaker with ice cubes to the brim and shake vigorously for 15 seconds until the shaker is frosty.
4. Step 4: Double strain the cocktail through a fine mesh strainer into a chilled coupe glass to remove basil bits and ice shards.
5. Step 5: Express an orange twist over the surface by twisting it to release the oils, then rest it on the rim.
6. Step 6: Garnish with a fresh basil sprig gently slapped to release aromas, placed on the glass edge.