Step 1

Coarsely chop the leaves and stems from1/2 large bunch basil leaves until you have 3/4 packed cup. Place in a small saucepan and add 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the syrup thickens slightly, about 6 minutes.

Step 2

Remove the saucepan from the heat. Let steep and cool for 1 hour. Pour through a fine-mesh strainer set over a bowl and use the back of a spoon to press on the solids to extract as much as you can. Discard the solids. Add 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt to the syrup and stir until dissolved. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks.

Step 3

Cut 1 round from 1/2 medium lemon; reserve the remaining lemon.

Step 4

Place 6 ounces lemonade, 2 ounces vodka, and 1 to 2 tablespoons Basil Simple Syrup if desired in a pint jar or large tall glass and stir to combine. Fill the glass with ice. Taste and add an additional squeeze from the reserved lemon if needed. Garnish with the lemon round and 1 fresh basil sprig.