Strawberry Basil Vodka Cocktail

1⁄2 oz strawberry syrup (purchased or homemade, see recipe below)
3-4 fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish
2 oz vodka
1⁄2 oz lime juice
2 oz sparkling water, I like La Croix Lemon Lime (or club soda, or lemon lime soda for added
sweetness)

Add the syrup, basil leaves to a cocktail shaker. Muddle to mash the basil leaves and release their flavor. Add the vodka and lime juice and fill the shaker halfway with ice. Shake vigorously for 20 seconds then strain into a tall glass filled with ice. Top off with sparkling water or soda. Garnish with berries and basil leaves.

Strawberry Syrup

Makes about 1 cup, halve the recipe if you wish. Use extra over pancakes, waffles, or ice cream.

1 c granulated sugar
1⁄2 c water
1 c chopped fresh strawberries, or 11⁄2 c frozen strawberries

Heat sugar and water in a small saucepan until sugar melts. Add berries. Cook over medium heats until bubbly and berries begin to break down (this will take longer if using frozen berries). Turn heat to low and continue to cook 10-12 minutes, mashing berries with a fork.

Strain syrup into a jar. Can keep refrigerated up to 3 weeks.