Based on the classic tequila-and-grapefruit Paloma, this unleaded version also features a summery basil-infused simple syrup and a good dose of bubbly, bold ginger beer.
Ingredients
2 c ginger beer
1/4 c basil simple syrup (see recipe below)
1 c pink grapefruit juice
Juice of 1 lemon
Lemon slices and basil sprigs for garnish
Directions
Add ice, ginger beer, simple syrup, grapefruit juice, lemon juice, and tequila to the pitcher and stir to combine.
Pour over ice and garnish with lemon and basil.
Basil Simple Syrup recipe below
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A simple syrup is equal parts sugar and water heated until the sugar dissolves. This one incorporates a little muddled basil for a burst of summer flavor. Almost any herb will work—mint, rosemary, tarragon, chervil—depending on your preferences or what you have in the house.
Ingredients
1 c sugar
1 c water
About 20 basil leaves
Directions
Bring sugar and water to a boil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat.
Turn off heat and add basil leaves, muddling gently to release flavor.
Let steep for 15 minutes.
Remove basil leaves and store basil syrup in refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week.
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Katie O'Kennedy
Photography: Paloma Sendrey, IG @bestgirlfriday
Author
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Katie O’Kennedy is a writer and former editor at Bon Appétit magazine, where she covered food, drinks, entertaining, and travel for 20 years. She likes to cook and play tennis, and finds both immensely more enjoyable without alcohol. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband and daughter. Katie can be found on Instagram at @alcoholfreealchemy.