Limoni - Part 2

Today the beautiful lemons that were sitting on my table began their journey toward limoncello! Limoncello only requires using the zest so I decided to juice the lemons and make Basil Lemonade - a perfect, refreshing treat for a warm Sunday afternoon.

Doesn't it look delicious? I can assure you that it is! :) Just the perfect hint of basil, but not overpowering.  If you'd like to make this wonderful beverage I have two recipes for you. First:


Best Ever Lemonade
adapted from Allrecipes.com

• 1 3/4 c sugar
• 8 c water
• 1 1/2 c lemon juice

In a small saucepan combine sugar and 1 cup water. Bring to a boil and stir to dissolve sugar. Allow to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate until chilled.

Remove seeds from lemon juice, but leave pulp. In a pitcher, stir together chilled syrup, lemon juice and remaining 7 cups water.

Basil Lemonade
adapted from RealSimple.com

• 1 c sugar
• 1 c fresh basil leaves, plus springs for garnishing
• 8 c lemonade

In a saucepan, over medium heat, bring the sugar and 1 1/2 cold water to a simmer. Cook, without stirring, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.

Remove from heat, add the basil, and let cool to room temperature. Strain the syrup into a resealable container and discard the solids.

Pour 2-3 teaspoons of the basil syrup into each of 8 ice-filled glasses, then fill with lemonade. Garnish with a sprig of basil.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend! Cheers!