Drinks Recipe

Make simple syrup

In a small heatproof bowl or measuring cup, combine 0.75 cups granulated sugar and 0.5 cups warm water. Stir until sugar is completely dissolved to make a simple syrup. Let cool to room temperature (5–10 minutes).

Muddle basil

Place 8 fresh basil leaves in a large pitcher. Pour about 1/4 cup of the prepared lemon juice (from the 1 cup) over the basil and gently muddle with a wooden spoon or muddler 8–10 times until fragrant and slightly bruised. This releases oils without shredding the leaves.

Combine citrus and syrup

Add the remaining lemon juice (about 3/4 cup), the 0.5 cup fresh orange juice, and the cooled simple syrup into the pitcher with the muddled basil. Stir to combine.

Add water and chill

Pour in 3 cups cold water and stir well. Taste and adjust sweetness or dilution: add up to 1/4 cup more simple syrup if you prefer sweeter, or up to 1 cup additional cold water if too sweet/concentrated.

Strain and finish

If you prefer a clear lemonade, pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a serving pitcher to catch basil bits. Otherwise leave basil leaves in for rustic presentation. Add ice cubes (4 cups) and gently stir to chill.

Garnish and serve

Add remaining basil leaves (reserve 4) torn lightly and float them on top along with lemon slices and orange wheels. Serve immediately over ice.

To make a sparkling lemonade, prepare the lemonade as above but chill it well first. Just before serving, pour 2 cups chilled sparkling water or club soda into the pitcher and stir gently to preserve the bubbles. Add additional ice if desired and garnish as directed.