When you have one window in your entire apartment (yes, I’m serious), no air conditioning, and a ceiling fan so rickety you only dare to pump it on low, you quickly learn alternative methods of cooling down from the steamy summer heat. As much as I love glazed doughnuts, walking around resembling one is no good for anyone.

This citrus and basil stunner is my go-to beverage when it’s too hot to be kitchen bound, and far too early in the day to indulge in summer cocktail refreshment.

In this fizzy darling drink, citrus meets basil at the bottom of a large pitcher where they get a quick, gentle mash before a shimmering cascade of sparkling water is poured on top completing the process. Seriously, that’s it.

Happy hydration!

Sparkling Basil & Citrus Water

1 grapefruit

1 orange

2 lemons

2 limes

1/2 cup fresh basil, torn

8 cups sparkling water (still water may work great, too!)

Wash citrus, and slice it into thin rounds. Tear fresh basil into small pieces, and combine it with the citrus in a large pitcher. Gentle mash the fruit and basil together with a wooden spoon of muddler, just enough to release some of the juice from the citrus. Pour the citrus water over the fruit, stir, and serve immediately over ice.