Using a cherry pitter or the end of a vegetable peeler, pit cherries. Using a knife and cutting board, thinly slice lemons. Using a mortar and pestle, a herb muddler, or your fingers gently crush basil to bring out more essence.
Place cherries, lemons, and basil in a half-gallon jar. Slightly mash with a wooden spoon to bring out more flavor. Fill with cold water. Allow to chill in refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.
Pour into clear glasses filled with ice cubes. Makes 2 quarts.
Notes
Tips: Add fruit to jar, and slightly mash with a wooden spoon to bring out more flavor. Also, gently rub herbs together before adding to mixture to bring out more herbal essence. Other combinations you might try:
strawberries, lemons, and mint; blueberries, oranges, and lavender; or cucumbers, grapefruit, and rosemary.