Thirstday

 

Courtesy Better Homes and Gardens.

This week's cocktail is the Strawberry-Basil Smash.

Ingredients

• ¾ cup sugar

• 12 ounce strawberries, hulled (2 1/4 cups)

• 1 cup fresh lemon juice

• ½ cup packed fresh basil leaves

• Gin, vodka, silver tequila, or white rum

• Sparkling water, chilled

Directions

1. In a pitcher combine 4 cups water and the sugar. Stir until dissolved.

2. Add strawberries, lemon juice, and basil. Using an immersion blender, blend 2 minutes or until smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve; discard solids. Skim off and discard any foam. Chill, covered, up to 24 hours.

3. For each drink, pour about 3/4 cup strawberry mixture into a highball glass filled with ice. Stir in 1 to 2 ounces desired alcohol. Top with a splash of sparkling water. If desired, garnish with sliced strawberries and additional basil leaves. Serves 6 to 8.