After 2,500 miles of driving, we are finally in my home state of Minnesota! It was a long journey that seemed never-ending at times but was sprinkled with the perfect combination of dear friends and goofy family laughter. We enjoyed good food together, did lots of swimming in Lake Michigan, and learned a lot about what works and doesn't work when you drive such a long distance with a toddler and a dog.
Needless to say, more than one day ended with a relieved sigh and a drink in hand. I'll share more details about our trip and what we've been eating a little later, but I wanted to get this lovely summer cocktail recipe to you first. It's perfect if you have a bumper crop of basil this year and are looking for ways to use it up. I found that if you soak basil leaves in gin, it lends a beautiful basil flavor. I've used that method here for this orange and basil cocktail.
This Summer Sipper is perfect for hot evenings in the dog days of summer. With a bright orange color and the fresh, herbal touch of basil, there is nothing more refreshing.
What are your favorite summer cocktails? I'm always looking for inspiration!
Summer Sipper
Makes 1 cocktails
- 2 oz fresh orange juice
- 1 1/2 oz Bombay Sapphire Gin
- 3-4 basil leaves, torn
- sparkling water
- Additional basil for garnish
Combine the gin and basil leaves in a small bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let the gin infuse for 4-6 hours.
Fill a cocktail glass with ice. Add the gin and orange juice. Top off with the sparkling water and stir to combine. Garnish with additional basil leaves and serve.