The weekend is here, and you're wondering what to do with your last remaining basil plant from your summer garden. Enter the Basil Julep. Although mint is normally the herb of choice for this drink, basil provides a surprisingly savory and delicious alternative. You'll be the hit of next year's Kentucky Derby by serving these!

Recipe (serves 4)
1 bunch of fresh basil, a few leaves reserved
1/2 c sugar
1/2 c water
8 oz bourbon
crushed ice

First, make a basil simple syrup. Mix the water, sugar, and bunch of basil in a small pot and bring to a light boil. Stir until the sugar has dissolved. Cool - I usually just put the pot in the freezer and find it ready to mix within an hour.

In a glass, muddle 2 tbsp of the basil simple syrup with a few basil leaves. Top off the glass with crushed ice. Add 2 oz of bourbon, and stir well. Serve and enjoy!