Description
Basil Lemonade is a refreshing and aromatic summer drink that combines the zesty brightness of freshly squeezed lemons with the fresh, herbal flavor of basil. This easy-to-make beverage features a homemade basil simple syrup infused with sugar and basil leaves, mixed with lemon juice and cold water for a perfectly balanced, thirst-quenching treat that serves eight.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Basil Simple Syrup
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
For the Lemonade
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 6-8 lemons)
- 4-5 cups cold water (for diluting)
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
- Basil sprigs, for garnish (optional)
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Make the Simple Syrup: Combine the sugar and 1 cup of water in a medium saucepan, then heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely, about 3-5 minutes.
- Infuse Basil Flavor: Add the packed basil leaves to the saucepan, gently pressing them into the syrup. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, taking care not to boil, to allow the basil to infuse the syrup.
- Steep the Basil: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the basil steep in the syrup for at least 30 minutes or longer if you prefer a stronger flavor.
- Strain the Syrup: Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar or container, discarding the basil leaves. Let the syrup cool completely before using. Store refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.
- Prepare the Lemons: Choose ripe lemons with smooth, thin skins and roll them firmly on the countertop to release more juice. Juice the lemons with a citrus juicer, removing any seeds.
- Optional Lemon Straining: Strain the lemon juice through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any pulp for a smoother lemonade.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pitcher, mix the cooled basil simple syrup, 1 cup of fresh lemon juice, and 4 cups of cold water. Stir well to combine.
- Adjust Flavor: Taste the lemonade and adjust sweetness or tartness by adding more simple syrup if too tart, or more lemon juice or water if too sweet. If the lemonade is too strong, dilute with additional cold water as desired.
- Chill: Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and chill.
- Serve: Serve the lemonade over ice cubes. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh basil sprigs if desired for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use fresh basil for the best herbal flavor infusion.
- Adjust the sweetness and tartness of the lemonade to your personal preference.
- The basil simple syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Rolling the lemons before juicing helps maximize the amount of juice extracted.
- Optional straining of lemon juice removes pulp for a smoother texture.
- Serve immediately after chilling for best freshness, or keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
