BASIL-INFUSED WATERMELON LEMONADE

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Basil-Infused Watermelon Lemonade image

We loved the freshness of this lemonade! The basil flavor is surprisingly light and really adds an earthy lift. This recipe is rather labor intensive, but it's WELL worth it. Make it as-is for the whole family, or experiment with it as a cocktail mixer.

Provided by Kimberly Biegacki

Categories     Other Drinks

Time 1h20m

Number Of Ingredients 5

1 c water
3/4 c sugar
1 c fresh basil. thinly sliced
8 c watermelon, cubed and seeded
1/2 c fresh lemon juice - about 3 lemons

Steps:

  • 1. Combine 1 cup of water and sugar in a small saucepan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer for 5 minutes or until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in the basil. Let chill for 1 hour. Strain sugar mixture through a sieve over a bowl, and discard basil.
  • 2. Place watermelon in a blender; process until smooth.
  • 3. Pour watermelon puree through a fine sieve into a large bowl, reserving liquid; discard solids. Combine watermelon liquid, sugar mixture, and juice in a pitcher; chill.
  • 4. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and basil sprigs and serve! VARIATION: Add about 8 ice cubes to the watermelon before blending. Do not strain when done. The result is more like a frozen lemonade or virgin margarita.

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