This is not a recipe I make with my kids, and no, I'm not encouraging you to whip up a pitcher of this elixer with your ankle biters either.
Let's be honest, our kids are going to try their hands at mixology soon enough, at ages we will likely find horrifying, they won't need any help from us here.
As a blog dedicated to sharing family friendly recipes you can make with your own young ones, we are not in the habit of posting tasty alcoholic treats, but if its half as hot where you are today as it is here, then you could probably use a refreshing adult beverage.
Aren't you glad you know me?
I am for the most part a wine and beer guy, but every now and again I reach for something a bit stiffer. In the cold months that would be a bourbon, and when hot weather hits, this drink. I first had a basil gimlet (with gin) at a restaurant years ago, and even though I'm not a gin drinker, fell in love with the thing and vowed to come up with a vodka version ASAP. This concoction is the result of that effort launched so many years ago, and is a perfect heatwave sip, slightly sweet with a bright citrus tang from the lime, and the refreshing herbal note of basil.
So, kick your kids out of the kitchen today and break out your cocktail shaker. Find a little spot of shade, pour yourself a glass of this sweet, herbal deliciousness, and chill…..you deserve it.
Cheers – Steve
Ingredients
- 6 large, fresh basil leaves, torn into strips
- Finely grated zest of 1/2 a lime
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 ounce simple syrup
- 2 1/2 ounces vodka
Instructions
- Put the basil strips, lime zest, lime juice and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker. Crush the leaves and the juices with a muddler and let sit for 5 minutes to allow the liquid to infuse with the basil flavor.
- Add the vodka, then fill the shaker 2/3 full with ice. Cover and shake vigorously for 30 seconds. Strain the elixir into 2 chilled martini glasses, top each with a small sprig of basil and enjoy!
- Rinse and repeat! (though do please drink responsibly)