Basil Strawberry Shake

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries (hulled)
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, packed (plus a sprig for garnish)
• 3 large scoops (about 1.5 cups) vanilla ice cream or vanilla Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon honey or agave nectar (optional, to taste)
• Squeeze of fresh lime juice (optional, to brighten flavors)
• For Garnish:
• Sliced strawberries
• Fresh basil sprig

Instructions

1. For a stronger basil flavor, place the basil leaves and a teaspoon of the milk in the blender first. Pulse a few times to bruise and break down the leaves.
2. Place a tall glass in the freezer.
3. Add the strawberries, vanilla ice cream (or yogurt), remaining milk, and honey (if using) to the blender with the basil.
4. Blend on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and pale pink with tiny green specks of basil throughout.
5. Taste the shake. The basil should be a clear, fresh note. Add a squeeze of lime juice to enhance the berry flavor if desired.
6. Pour into the chilled glass. Garnish with a fresh strawberry slice and a small sprig of basil. Serve immediately.