Sparkling Blueberry Basil Limeade (Skinny)

hill out in style this summer with this bright, lively and very refreshing berry-lime drink. I am a big fan of lemonades/limeades myself but the big problem I have with them is they are loaded with sugar. So here's a recipe that lets you chill by the pool in style without having to load up on sugar. Hubs was a little skeptical when he heard of a blueberry drink. He likes most all berries except these and raspberries. I had it ready for him when he got back from work. Back home from the hot Florida sun. He took a sip and I could see his face light up. Of course he followed the sip with a detailed description of how good was it and why, how it was crisp and cool and tasted like lime and blueberries in the best way possible, but for me I had gotten my feedback even before he started talking. That was enough.

Ingredients:

For Syrup -		Yields 1/2 to 3/4 cup
Blueberry		1 cup + few for garnish
Basil leaves		1/2 cup, packed
Splenda		12 - 15 pouches or substitute with 1/2 cup sugar
Water		3/4 cup
Lime Juice		from 4 - 5 big limes
Sparkling water		2 cups or as needed chilled
Ice		as needed

Method:

1.  For making the blueberry syrup, in a saucepan combine blueberries, splenda, basil and water and press it with a back of a wooden spoon (or muddle the berries). Simmer until the splenda is dissolved, 5-7 minutes. Cool, strain the syrup and store in the refrigerator for at least an hour.

2. Mix lemon juice, blueberry simple syrup and sparkling water together in a pitcher. Stir well.
3. Pour over ice filled glasses and garnish with lemon wedges/drop in berries. ENJOY!
Notes:
1. I love using sparkling water but you can substitute it with chilled regular water.
2. If you are in the mood, feel free to add some vodka, wine or rum.

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