Ingredients
2 cups sugar4 cups chopped peeled fresh peaches or 1 pound frozen unsweetened sliced peaches1 package (3/4 ounce) fresh basil leaves2 cups cold water1-1/2 cups fresh lemon juiceAdditional cold waterIce cubesClub soda or champagneAdditional fresh basil leaves
Preparation
In a large saucepan, combine sugar, peaches, basil and water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, 5 minutes. Remove from heat; let stand 30 minutes. Discard basil; stir in lemon juice. Refrigerate until cooled completely.
Place peach mixture in a blender; cover and process until blended. Strain into a pitcher; add additional cold water to reach desired consistency. To serve, fill glasses with ice. Pour peach mixture halfway up glass; top with club soda or, if desired, champagne. Garnish with additional basil.
