Spiked Basil Lemonade

 

20 large basil leaves, roughly torn

1/2 a lemon, cut into 6 pieces

1 batch simple syrup (see recipe below)

2 C. fresh lemon juice

1 1/2 C. good-quality Vodka

Granulated sugar and a lemon wedge, for garnish

Ice

 

In a pitcher, muddle the basil and lemon pieces. Pour in the simple syrup, lemon juice and vodka. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to allow the basil flavor to infuse into the lemonade. Strain the lemon pieces and basil leaves from the mixture and refrigerate until well chilled. To serve, set out sugar-rimmed martini glasses (run a lemon wedge around the rim of a glass and dip the rim in sugar). Shake the lemonade with ice in a martini shaker, then strain into the glasses.