Strawberry Basil Infused Vodka

Strawberry and basil are great complementary flavors and this makes for a fresh and summery cocktail. 

Ingredients:
2 pounds strawberries, hulled and quartered
2 cups basil leaves
6 cups vodka

Directions:
Rinse the strawberries and basil leaves and discard any stems, leaves or unhealthy looking pieces.  Hull strawberries and quarter them.  Add vodka, strawberries and basil to an airtight jar.  Seal jar, shake, and place in a cool, dark place.  Shake every day to speed infusion.

After 7 days, strain the vodka and remove the strawberries.  For the clearest infusion, strain again through a coffee filter.  Store in the refrigerator or freezer.

Note: The process of leeching the flavors out of the fruit will make the fruit look like it is rotted.  Alcohol will kill any bacteria, but for appearances, you can remove the fruit once the infusion is ready.  If giving as a gift, you can add fresh fruit to the infusion.

Serve over ice, with ginger ale, or with lemonade for Strawberry Basil Lemonade.  Cheers!