Refreshing Basil Limeade

With the insanely low-priced limes at our local Hispanic market (15/$1.00!) we have an abundance of fresh juicy limes at home all summer long.  The only problem is they don't last forever, and before long we end up throwing them away because we couldn't find ways to use them fast enough.  This time, we didn't let that happen.  I put Sean to work juicing 13 limes to make a batch of fresh limeade.  To give it a twist, we made basil-infused simple syrup for the sweetener.  This is so refreshing, and you can make each glass as sweet our sour as you like.  Enjoy it on a hot summer day!

Ingredients:

fresh-squeezed lime juice - (13 limes made about 1 1/2 cups, but you can do as much as you want)

1 cup sugar

1 cup water

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves

ice & more water, for serving

Directions: 

To make the basil- simple syrup, combine the sugar and water in a pot and bring the heat to medium.  Whisk to combine, and when the sugar has fully dissolved, remove it from the heat.  Stir in the basil.  Cover and let it sit until it comes to room temperature.  Refrigerate until ready to use.

To make a glass of limeade, combine several ice cubes with 1 cup of water and 3 tablespoons each of lime juice and simple syrup.  (You may want to use more or less of either to adjust according to your taste.)  The flavors are so fresh and delicious.  Enjoy!