My garden is overflowing with basil, so I'm making all kinds of crazy recipes with it. This is an amazingly refreshing drink on a hot, humid summer day.

Lemon Basilade

2 cups basil-infused simple syrup
2 cups lemon juice
~ 8 cups cold water, to taste.
Sprigs of fresh basil (to garnish)

Basil-infused Simple Syrup
(per 2 cups)

2 cups granulated sugar
2 cups water
40 fresh basil leaves

BASIL INFUSED SIMPLE SYRUP

1.) Bring water to a boil, then add sugar and stir until dissolved.
2.) Remove from heat and add basil leaves. Let the basil leaves steep in the syrup for around 45 minutes, then remove.
*** Finished syrup will have a hay-like color.
3.) Store refrigerated in an airtight container.

LEMON BASILADE

1.) Combine water, simple syrup, and lemon juice and mix well.
2.) Serve with ice and garnish with sprigs of fresh basil. I recommend lime basil :)
**pictured is sweet basil and lime basil