Basil & Lemon Syrup…On ice cream with sugared basil, in sparkling water, spiked with vodka.

My recipe for Basil & Lemon Syrup was created due to a 3-Ingredient Recipe Challenge that had to include basil.  While racking my brain for a recipe, I was also in heavy thought about a special beverage for my husband’s Father’s Day.  Something masculine and refreshing, made with his new bottle of Stoli Elite.  What if I make a syrup with basil, lemon, and sugar…

A few minutes later, I was very pleased with the results.  This syrup can be served with sparkling water over ice for a refreshing, light beverage…Same beverage with attitude is spiked with vodka…I felt like an expert mixologist!  The syrup is extra delicious drizzled over vanilla ice cream with sugared basil.

Now, I have what I consider to be a great entry for the challenge and, best of all, a fabulous beverage for my husband’s Father’s Day!

Boil equal amounts of lemon juice and sugar, pour over torn basil leaves…cover and steep.

Basil & Lemon Syrup
makes 1 cup

1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice, strained…or “not from concentrate” lemon juice
6 large basil leaves, torn into pieces

Place torn basil leaves in a heatproof bowl.  Heat lemon juice and sugar in a saucepan on medium heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture boils.  Remove from heat and pour over basil leaves.  Cover and allow to steep for 1 hour, strain and refrigerate until ready to use.