Lemon in the Garden

Lemon gives you the tartness you’d expect, but basil changes what happens when you lift the glass. That leafy, slightly sweet aroma makes the drink feel less like plain lemon water and more like something you chose to make. Bruise the basil lightly and keep the sparkling water cold. If the citrus tastes too sharp, another splash of water is a better first adjustment than a pile of sweetener.

Ingredients

• 6 oz Sparkling water
• 1/2 oz Lemon juice
• 3 leaf Basil leaves

Make it

1. Add the fruit and herbs to a glass. Gently press soft fruit or herbs to release their flavor.
2. Stir in the juice, any optional salt or sweetener, and the water. If using sparkling water, add it last and stir once.
3. Add ice if you like. Let infused water stand for 5 minutes for a fuller flavor.

Benefits

Lemon · a little vitamin C

Lemon supplies some vitamin C for protecting cells from oxidative damage; pairing it with basil adds another layer to the flavor.

Make room for basil

Basil gives the lemon a savory green fragrance—an aromatic pairing to serve freshly mixed, while the bubbles are lively.