Orange Basil Bellini

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish
• 1 orange
• 1 (1 liter) bottle sparkling water or seltzer
• 1 bottle prosecco (optional)

1. In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, add the water and sugar and bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
2. Remove from the heat, add the basil, and let cool.
3. Strain out the basil and refrigerate until ready to use.
4. Syrup will last up to 2 weeks in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
5. Slice 1/4-inch thick slice from the center of the orange.
6. Slice that into quarters and set aside for garnish.
7. Squeeze the juice from the 2 remaining halves into a bowl.
8. Pour 1 tablespoon orange juice and 1 tablespoon basil simple syrup into a champagne flute.
9. For a mocktail, top with sparkling water.
10. For a cocktail, add about 1/2 cup prosecco per glass and a splash of sparkling water.
11. Garnish with a slice of orange and a basil leaf.

water, sugar, fresh basil, orange, water, prosecco

Taken from www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/sandra-lee/orange-basil-bellini-recipe.html (may not work)