Basil Lemonade

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 cup basil leaves, firmly packed 

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest, finely grated

• 6 cups water

• 1 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice 

Add sugar, basil and lemon zest to a medium saucepan and muddle together for about one minute to release the flavor of the basil. Add two cups of water and bring mixture to a boil, stirring frequently to dissolve sugar. After coming to a boil remove from heat and allow to cool for thirty minutes. Strain basil syrup into a large pitcher, add remaining 4 cups water and lemon juice. Stir well and serve with ice.