Basil Lemonade

Any of my Boston bettys been to Bon Me? Apart from having themostaddicting banh mi sandwiches, they also boast a seriously refreshing Thai Basil Limeade that I have been known to go far out of my way for. Lazing about this weekend, I found all the ingredients to make my own version already sitting in our fridge! This is definitely going to be a go-to recipe all summer long.

basil lemonade from lemonade by fred thompson

makes about one quart

[ ingredients ]
3 1/2 cups cold water
1 cup packed fresh basil leaves
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 6 lemons)
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 2 limes)
small sprigs fresh basil for garnish

[ instructions ]
1 // in a small saucepan, combine 2 cups o the water, the basil leaves, and the sugar. bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes. removefrom the heat and let cool for about 30 minutes.
2 // strain through a fine-mesh strainer into a 1 1/2- quart container. add the lemon juice, remaining 1 1/2 cups water, and lime juice and stir until well blended.
3 // chill until very cold. serve over ice, garnished with a basil sprig if desired.

[ the addition of vodka makes for a nice summer cocktail! 🙂 ]