Basil Gin Smash

Step 1: Squeeze half a lemon, measure juice to 3/4 oz and set aside. Cut the squeezed-out rind into four pieces and place them in a cocktail shaker.

Step 2: Add the simple syrup and torn basil leaves to the cocktail shaker and muddle until the basil is well smashed and is giving off its wonderful aroma, releasing the oils.

Step 3: Add the lemon juice and gin to the shaker, along with some ice cubes. Shake for about 30 seconds, or until you can no longer comfortably hold the frosty shaker.

Step 4: Double strain the cocktail, then pour into an ice filled glass. Garnish with a whole basil leaf if you wish. Buen provecho!