Basil Lemon-nada Recipe
Make Basil Lemon-nada Recipe in just 20m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Basil Lemon-Nada (Drink)
Homemade Simple Syrup (if making from scratch)
Method
Prepare Simple Syrup (optional)
- 1
Make syrup
Combine 0.5 cups granulated sugar and 0.5 cups water in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar is fully dissolved, about 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Refrigerate until chilled if not using immediately.
Muddle & Mix
- 2
Muddle basil and lemon
In a large pitcher or mixing container, add 0.5 cups packed fresh basil leaves. Pour in the 0.75 cups fresh lemon juice and the 0.5 cups simple syrup. Using a sturdy muddler or the back of a wooden spoon, gently muddle the basil leaves against the sides/bottom of the pitcher for 20–30 seconds until the leaves release their aroma and oils. Do not over-muddle to the point of shredding into small bits; aim to bruise and perfume the basil.
- 3
Season (optional)
If using, stir in 0.25 tsp salt to deepen the citrus flavor. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding up to 1–2 tbs extra simple syrup if too tart.
- 4
Chill and strain (optional for clearer drink)
If you prefer a clearer beverage, let the muddled mixture sit in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to steep, then strain through a fine mesh sieve into a clean pitcher, pressing on solids to extract liquid. Discard solids. If you like more herb texture, skip straining.
Finish & Serve
- 5
Combine with soda
Fill a serving pitcher with 2 cups ice cubes. Pour the strained or unstrained basil-lemon-syrup mixture over the ice. Top with 2 cups cold club soda or sparkling water and stir gently to combine, preserving bubbles.
- 6
Add alcohol (optional)
If making a cocktail, add 4 tbs (about 2.0 fl oz / 60 ml) vodka or gin to the pitcher and stir once to incorporate. Adjust amount to taste.
- 7
Serve
Pour the Basil Lemon-Nada into four tall glasses over ice (about 1/2 cup drink per glass before topping). Garnish each glass with a lemon slice and a fresh basil sprig. For a decorative touch, slap the basil sprigs between your palms before garnishing to release their aroma.
- 8