Lemon, Ginger, Basil Cooler
cjzern
Photo by Nicole Franzen
- Serves
- 1
Summertime to me means sitting lakeside in Maine. Years ago it was camp and new friends and bug juice. Now it is a dock and old friends and a cocktail (or two). Either way, it's my favorite way to spend long afternoons. This drink was inspired by a ginger liqueur that one of those friends brought up with her. - cjzern
Ingredients
Lemon, Ginger, Basil Cooler
- 1 ounce vodka
- 1 ounce ginger liqueur (I used Domaine de Canton)
- 1 to 1.5 ounce basil-infused simple syrup (to taste)
- Lemon Soda (I used San Pellegrino's Limonata)
- Ice
Basil-Infused Simple Syrup
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup basil
Featured Video
This is an easy recipe for a balanced sip of something cool. No single element stands above the others. The result is a calming one. Some of my tasters made suggestions to tailor it to their own taste. The ginger freak wanted to add ginger beer with the lemon soda at the end. The basil lover said doubling the amount of the herb in the syrup, taking care to muddle it a bit, would elevate that taste. I liked it as written and was nice and calm after my sipping. Cheers! - cheese1227
Directions
Lemon, Ginger, Basil Cooler
- Step 1
I used old jelly jars for this, but in a glass that is approximately the size of a highball or double old-fashioned, add a few ice cubes and the remaining ingredients, using the lemon soda to fill the glass. Stir. Garnish with either a few basil leaves or a lemon twist. Sip. Relax.
Basil-Infused Simple Syrup
- Step 1
In a small pot, add all ingredients and stir until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let cool. Strain out the basil leaves. Can be stored in the refrigerator for about one month.