What could be more refreshing on a warm summer's day than this fruit and herb cooler? It looks beautiful in a glass jug, too

When the sun is high and the days stretch lazily into evening, nothing refreshes quite like a chilled fruit and herb cooler. For fans of the herby-sweet combo of a classic Pimm's, this offers a fresh twist as part of a classic summer gatherings menu.

This fruit and herb cooler is the ultimate soft drink for classic summer gatherings. Or make it as part of your picnic recipes as it's stunning to serve (use a glass jug to really show it off, like this recycled glass pitcher from Williams Sonoma) and easy to make.

Ingredients

• 20 ripe but firm plums
• 16 oz unrefined caster sugar
• 1½ tbsp whole black peppercorns
• 2 large handfuls fresh basil leaves
• 1 handful fresh borage flowers, to serve (optional)
• 2 handfuls ice cubes
• Chilled sparkling water, to top up

The Homes & Gardens method

1. Halve, stone and roughly chop half the plums.
2. Put in a pan with white sugar, peppercorns and 2 cups water.
3. Bring to the boil, stirring, and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in a handful of basil. Steep for 30 minutes.
5. Strain through a sieve.
6. To serve, halve, stone and finely slice the remaining plums and layer up in a large serving jug with the remaining basil, borage flowers (if using) and ice cubes.
7. Add the syrup and top up with chilled sparkling water to taste.

If you don't already have an outdoor summer jug, it's time to invest in one that suits your hosting needs. Opting for outdoor-safe tableware ensures durability and style, making your gatherings both practical and elegant.

This simple but sturdy Libbey set with six highball glasses and a pitcher from Wayfair is an excellent choice.