Sometimes drinking plain water can be tough for me. Being pregnant I am trying to drink as much as I can. Often, I am finding myself falling behind because I literally get bored of drinking water. That is where making lemonade came in. This blackberry basil lemonade is refreshing and just so pretty! I make a large batch and keep in in the fridge. I add a little bit flavor my daily water as well as allow myself a full glass here and there as a treat. This is also wonderful to have on hand to offer guests when they pop up.

This recipe uses a simple syrup which is so easy to make. Once you get the hang of simple syrup it is fun to play around with ways to infuse it. I had done a mint simple syrup on berries awhile back which was equally delicious.

Blackberry Basil Lemonade

Blackberries with a basil simple syrup make for a wonderfully refreshing drink. Not only is it delicious but it is gorgeous too!

ingredients

basil simply syrup

• 2 c water

• 2 c sugar

• 1/2 c basil leaves

blackberry lemonade

• 1 c blackberries

• 1 c basil simple syrup

• 2 c lukewarm water

• 4 lemons, juiced

• 3 limes, juiced

instructions

basil simple syrup

1. In a small or medium sized sauce pan stir together the water, sugar, and basil. Bring to a boil and stir. Let it boil for about a minute or until the sugar is dissolved. Then remove from the heat and let the mixture cool.

2. Once the mixture is cool pour it through a mesh sieve to remove any sugar crystals or basil leaves. You many store the syrup in an airtight container if you are not ready to use it yet!

blackberry lemonade

1. In a food processor combine the blackberries, lime, and lemon juice. Pulse until smooth. Then strain the blackberry mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl.

2. Add the lukewarm water to a large pitcher. Add 1 cup of the blackberry mix along with 1 cup of simple syrup. Mix well. Cover the pitcher and let it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes.

3. Serve over ice. *You may adjust the lemonade to your liking. If you want it a bit sweeter add some more simple syrup. If you want more of a tart taste add some more lemon juice. If you feel it is too strong in general add lukewarm water a little bit at a time!