6cupscubed, seedless watermelonmakes 2 cups of juice
1cuplemonade
1cupvodkaTito's or Grey Goose
ice
lemon wedgesto garnish
Instructions
Basil Syrup
Combine water and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Add fresh basil leaves, remove from heat to allow basil to steep and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
Strain out the basil leaves through a fine mesh sieve into a measuring cup or container, and your syrup is ready to use.
Watermelon Juice
Place the watermelon cubes in a blender and puree until smooth and frothy. Pour the pureed watermelon through a fine-mesh strainer into a large measuring cup or pitcher, pressing with a spoon to release all of the juice. Discard solids and set aside.
Pour the lemonade, vodka, watermelon juice, and one-half cup of basil simple syrup into a large serving pitcher. Stir to combine. Taste lemonade and add more basil syrup if needed.
When ready to serve, add ice to the pitcher or serve over ice in individual glasses. Garnish with a lemon wedge and fresh basil leaf and serve immediately.
Notes
For best results, make the basil simple syrup, lemonade, and watermelon juice ahead of time and store separately in the refrigerator so they have time to chill.
Basil syrup adds a herbaceous, peppery flavor to this drink but it is also very sweet. Use up to one-cup of syrup total, starting with half a cup and working your way up to achieve the perfect flavor combination.
It is best to consume watermelon lemonade within 2 to 3 days for optimal taste and freshness. The watermelon will settle to the bottom so make sure you stir before serving.
For a non-alcoholic version, substitute water, club soda, or soda water for the vodka.
For more intense basil flavor, muddle fresh basil leaves in glass before adding the watermelon lemonade.