Watermelon Basil Flavored Water

Photo by Deb Lindsey for The Washington Post

This beautiful, blush watermelon basil beverage is ideal for summer weekend gatherings when you want a super-quenching drink that is both healthful and elevated. Make Ahead: The mixture can be refrigerated up to 2 days in advance; re-stir before serving.

Watermelon Basil Flavored Water

Ingredients

1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves, plus some small leaves, for garnish

1 cup boiling water

4 cups cubed, seeded or seedless watermelon (1 pound)

4 cups cold water

2 teaspoons fresh lime juice, plus thinly sliced wheels or half-moon slices of lime, for garnish

Directions

Place the 1/2 cup of basil leaves in a small pot or heatproof mug and pour the cup of boiling water over them. Use a muddler or the handle of a wooden spoon to crush the basil leaves. Let steep and cool for 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, combine the watermelon and 2 cups of the cold water in a blender; puree until smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh strainer into a large pitcher, and discard the solids.

Strain/discard the basil leaves from their water, then add that liquid to the pitcher, along with the remaining 2 cups of cold water and the lime juice, stirring to incorporate.

Serve over ice, garnishing each portion with basil leaves and lime slices.

Makes 6 servings

Serving size: 1 Cup

Per serving : Calories 25; Total Fat 0g (Sat Fat 0g); Protein 0g; Carb 6g; Fiber 0g; Cholesterol 0mg; Sodium 0mg; Sugar: 5g