Opal basil is probably one of the herb that stands out the most in my summer garden. It is easy to grow and with its own beauty offers such delicate and profound flavor. The weather here in Colorado, is changing to cooler autumn days, which means that I have tons of basil to use up. So here we have this delicious mocktail.
Yields 2 refreshing drinks
Ingredients:
4 wedges of lime
About 6 leaves of opal basil (more if you prefer a more intense basil taste)
2 tablespoons simple syrup (or more to taste)
2 cups lime or lemon flavored sparking water
Basic Simple Syrup Recipe
1 cup Water
1 cup sugar
Warm water and add sugar. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Place in a clean mason jar and refrigerate for about one month.
Method:
Cut the skin off the 2 lime wedges and with opal basil, beat lightly in a mortar and pestle. Poor in a shaker and add the simple syrup. Shake for about 30 seconds to a minute depending on how concentrated you would like these flavors. With strainer attached to the shaker pour equal parts of this mixture in two glasses filled with ice. Add sparkling water and stir. Garnish with the remaining lime wedges, and enjoy.