Where the Heart Is... (Basil Orange Cooler)

Finally, after about two weeks, I have time to get into the kitchen.

Yes, my little blog has been neglected.  And as much as I want to feel bad about that, I don't. 

It is called living life.

Yup, you've got it!  I was a bridesmaid again, this time in Colorado.  Two out-of-state weddings in three weeks!  The plane is beginning to feel like my second home...

But it is a second home I am willing to live in when it brings me close to those I love.

However, my first home, MY HOME, is the place I love best.  It's got everything I need -- my stuff, my food, and most importantly, my man. 

Home is where the heart is. 

Fo' shizzle.

Now I have bags to unpack and a fridge to clean out and all that stuff that comes along with coming home, but I didn't mind taking a break to enjoy a little something fresh and delicious.  If you are like me, you can make without trekking to the grocery store...

A little bit of OJ, some basil and sugar, the juice of a lime or two... mix it up and add some water. 

Summer in a cup.

Go make yourself a glass and then do a cyber-cheers with me.

What are we cheering to, you ask?

To summer, to sunshine, to life...

...to all things beautiful.

Yes, I hear your glasses clinking, all the way over here.

BASIL ORANGE COOLER

Recipe from Everyday Food, June 2012

Ingredients

• 1 cup tightly packed fresh basil leaves
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 3 cups fresh orange juice
• 3 tablespoons lime juice
• Ice

Directions

1. In a large container, combine basil and sugar. Mash with the back of a wooden spoon until basil is broken up. Add orange juice, lime juice, and 5 cups water; stir until sugar is dissolved. Serve over ice.

Cook's Note

Easy Entertaining
This drink can be refrigerated for up to 3 days -- add garnish and ice before serving. Try using canning jars in place of pitchers or glasses for a casual party.

COST: $3.80       Cost per glass (8): $0.48