Basil + Grapefruit Elixir

As soon as I put the glass to my lips, I knew I was drinking the elixir of the gods. Elixirs are credited with curing illnesses. This is sure to take care of whatever ails you.

In fact, that’s how I decided on its name. I was going to call it a cocktail until that fateful October day in the herb garden…

I had been muddling and expressing and zesting that morning, playing around with portions and flavors. My basil syrup needed to steep before I proceeded any further with my experiment, so into the fridge it went as I collected herb prunings from the garden. 

In October, it is still hot in Augusta. Pruning for even an hour can make a girl glisten.

So imagine my delight when I reached for the pitcher of my potion in the fridge. Whoo hoo!

It is crisp, citrusy, herby, and so very refreshing. I admit, adding basil to my cocktail, nay elixir, made me feel like a mixologist. I crush on mixologists–they are so daring and crafty and imaginative! When I grow up, I want to be a mixologist. (#goals)

Begin this elixir by making a basil syrup. This sweet herbal syrup is something you will want to keep on hand, as it gives a garden-fresh layer to any beverage.

While the basil is busy infusing the syrup with its charm, squeeze your grapefruit. (Yes, do it yourself. No store bought!) You’ll need about a cup. Of course, the color of your grapefruit– white, pink, or red–will dictate the color of your elixir. A friend is hosting a bridesmaid shower next weekend, so she is choosing ruby red. I imagine it will be stunning.

Choose a white wine that won’t compete with the other ingredients, such as a Sauvignon Blanc.

Pour the wines in a pitcher. Stir in the grapefruit juice and syrup and pour over ice. Use minced basil as a garnish–it will look like your drink is having a confetti party.

Then sit back and let the elixir work its magic.

Enjoy!

XXOO AB

If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear about it!  Take some photos and tag them #nakedepicurean so we can celebrate together!

Basil Syrup

INGREDIENTS

• • 1  cup fresh basil, loosely packed

• • 1  cup sugar

• 1  cup water

DIRECTIONS

1. 1. Put ingredients in a saucepan and heat until sugar dissolves.

1. 1. Remove the pan from heat and let the syrup steep for about 10 minutes.

1. Strain the syrup and refrigerate.

Grapefruit & Basil Elixir

INGREDIENTS

• • ½  bottle of sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio

• • ½  bottle dry prosecco

• • 1   cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice

• ½  cup basil syrup
  
  grapefruit slices
  minced basil
  

DIRECTIONS

1. 1. Pour the wines in a pitcher. Stir in the grapefruit juice and syrup.

1. 1. Pour over ice.

1. Garnish with minced basil and whole basil leaves. Slide a slice of citrus on the rim of your glass.

If you are looking for a visual masterpiece, check out Gaby’s recipe for Citrus and Basil Sangria https://whatsgabycooking.com/citrus-and-basil-sangria/