#30: Cold drink on a warm day

Strawberry Basil margaritas

After many days of rain here in NYC, the sun came out this afternoon and it was a beautiful day. Warm, bright and sunny weather on a saturday pairs quite nicely with a chilled, light beverage. I found this one on Apartment Therapy's the Kitchn. I've decided to make it my official drink of the summer, as soon as I can have one that is ( maybe a nice patriotic pitcher on July 4th if I'm not held up in the hospital!) Its so simple, refreshing and looks absolutely gorgeous. And since it can be made in a pitcher, its fantastic for when you invite friends over too..

Strawberry Basil Margaritas makes 1 pitcher, or about 8 servings

1 can (12 ounces) frozen limeade concentrate

10 strawberries (or 12 if you're using smaller ones from the farmer's market or your backyard.)

8 basil leaves

2 to 2 1/2 cups tequila (gold or silver)

Empty the limeade concentrate into a pitcher. Add 2 1/2 cans of water and 1 1/2 (18 ounces, or 2 1/4 cups) cans of tequila (or a bit less, if you don't want your drinks to be quite as strong).

Hull the strawberries, slice lengthwise, and add to the pitcher. Crumple the basil a little in your hands (this will help the basil flavor release into the drink) and add it to the pitcher, too. Place the pitcher, covered, in the fridge overnight, or for at least four hours.

When you remove the pitcher from the fridge, your margaritas will be a lovely pale pink color. Now all you have to do is serve them and wait for the compliments to pour in.