Cherry-Basil Lemonade

Cherry-Basil Syrup Preparation:

1. Heat 1 cup of water in a sauce pan, add in the sugar, cherries and 3-4 basil leaves.
2. Cook until the cherries become soft, then gently crush the cherries using a muddler or the back of a spoon.
3. Cook the mixture until the sugar is dissolved completely and the syrup slightly thickens on medium heat. Stir Occasionally.
4. Remove from heat and strain the syrup through a mesh-sieve. Press down the mixture using the back of a spoon to extract maximum syrup.
5. Add in the lime juice and combine well. Allow to cool completely and then refrigerate until chilled.

Serving Instructions:

1. Add lemon wedges, fresh cherries and basil leaves in the serving glasses.
2. Bruise everything using a muddler or a spoon.
3. Add in the ice cubes , fill almost ½ of the glass with the cherry-basil syrup.
4. Slowly pour the cold water or club soda into the glasses till it almost reaches the brim.
5. Garnish with fresh lime wedges or cherries or basil leaves. Serve immediately.

Notes:

• Adjust the quantity of lime juice according to the tanginess.
• Adjust the quantity of sugar according to your taste. I used ¾ cup sugar.