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.
Notes
Store syrup in an airtight container or mason jar in the refrigerator for up to one month.
Substitute honey, agave syrup, or maple syrup instead of traditional granulated sugar.
For keto simple syrup, substitute allulose sweetener.