Happy Memorial Day! I'm enjoying the holiday in Boston with my family, and there's such patriotism here. It's refreshing to see so many people honor those that have given their lives for freedom. As a very pregnant lady I can't really toast to our veterans with an alcoholic beverage, but I sure can toast to them with this delicious mocktail created by California Pizza Kitchen. They were kind enough to share the recipe with you guys, and it's DELICIOUS!

Cucumber Basil soda:

Makes: 12 servings

Ingredients

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup water

1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced

12 large basil leaves

9 cups of soda water, chilled ice

cucumber slices and fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Procedure

In a medium saucepan combine sugar and water over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until sugar is dissolved and mixture just comes to a boil, about 5 minutes.

In a small bowl muddle the cucumber and basil leaves with the back of a wooden spoon. Add to the hot syrup. Cover and let steep for 30 minutes. Strain the syrup, pressing the solids through a fine-mesh strainer to release the flavors. Discard solids.

For each serving, combine 3 tablespoons of the syrup with ¾ cup soda water in an ice-filled glass. Stir gently to combine. Garnish with cucumber slices and a basil leaf.

Note: Cucumber-basil syrup can be stored in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.