Preparation

• 1.

  In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature to make a simple syrup.

• 2.

  In a blender, combine the fresh lemon juice and the Thai basil leaves. Blend until the basil is finely pureed.

• 3.

  In a large pitcher, add the cooled simple syrup, the basil-lemon mixture, and 4 cups of chilled water. Stir well to combine.

• 4.

  Taste the lemonade and adjust sweetness or tartness if desired by adding more sugar or water.

• 5.

  Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

• 6.

  Serve over ice, garnished with fresh lemon slices and Thai basil sprigs.