Basil Limonata Cocktail

Hot summer days call for cooling, refreshing drink recipes. Vodka is my favorite spirit during extremely hot weather, as it makes for a lighter mixer than rum or whiskey and works well with many summer ingredients, such as fresh basil. And what would a summer picnic, BBQ or party be without lemonade?

For a more adult spin on that childhood favorite, try this simple drink recipe featuring the Italian lemon soda, Limonata. Limonata is lightly carbonated, not too sweet, and excellent when mixed with vodka or tequila. It is available in cans and small bottles at many Italian specialty markets, as well as better supermarkets throughout the United States. My preference for vodka in mixed drinks such as this one is Smirnoff Triple Distilled, as it is very smooth for the price.

This recipe will make two drinks...but be prepared if you quickly get requests for refills!

Basil Limonata Cocktail
(makes two drinks)

1 6.5 oz bottle Sanpellegrino Limonata
Smirnoff Triple Distilled Vodka
12 fresh, small basil leaves
Lemon slices (optional)

Fill two chilled highball glasses with crushed ice, layering the ice with torn basil leaves. Add 2 oz. vodka and 6 oz. of Limonata. Mix and top with additional torn basil, and optionally garnish with a lemon slice. Enjoy!