How to Make Basil Lemonade

How to Make Basil Lemonade

Did you know the history of lemonade can be traced back to 500 AD? It’s said to have been invented by the Egyptians when they mixed lemon juice with sugar to make a drink they called ‘qatarmizat’.

Today, lemonade is a well loved beverage around the world. You’ve probably heard of famous variants such as strawberry lemonade, peach lemonade and perhaps even orange lemonade…

It’s likely, however, that you are yet to discover basil lemonade.

 

 

We love this recipe because it allows us to combine the ‘King of Herbs’ with an all time classic beverage. Furthermore, it brings a touch of Summer to a cold day. When thinking about how to garden indoors, it’s amazing to know that you’ll be able to make recipes such as this one.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1¼ cups fresh lemon juice (from about 8 lemons), plus lemon slices for garnish
  • ½ cup honey or 1 cup agave syrup
  • Handful of fresh lemon basil leaves, plus more for garnish
  • 3 cups cold water
  • Ice cubes

Here’s what to do: 

  • Place lemon juice, honey (or agave) and basil in a blender and blend until very smooth. Pass through a strainer into a pitcher or large jar. Add water and chill until ready to serve.
  • Serve over ice, garnished with lemon slices and basil leaves.
  • To make ahead: Prepare through Step 1 and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Credit to Sylvia Fountaine for this excellent recipe. Read more about this recipe and others on this great site.