Strawberry Basil Soup

This soup would be so refreshing and bright on a hot summer day. I received so many fresh strawberries and wanted to combine them with a little basil, also love the addition of reduced balsamic over fresh strawberries.

Strawberry Basil Soup

2 cups fresh strawberries, washed and trimmed
1/4 cup fine sugar
8 basil leaves
2 cups buttermilk
1 cup chopped ice
1/4 teaspoon fresh grated pepper
reduced balsamic vinegar to garnish (optional)

Combine all ingredients in a blender and process until smooth.
Pour into soup bowl and drizzle with balsamic syrup, if desired.