If you’re looking for a refreshing yet elegant drink for your next gathering or just to enjoy and relax, the Aperol Spritz is the perfect recipe. With its delicious orange flavor and Prosecco bubbles, this cocktail is not only easy to make but also ideal for any occasion. So let’s make it!
Aperol Spritz Cocktail
Aperol Spritz Cocktail
Servings:
1 glass
Time:
5 minutes
Ingredients
- 3 oz of Aperol (90 ml)
- 3 oz of Prosecco (90 ml)
- 1 oz of sparkling water (30 ml)
- Ice to taste
- Orange slice for garnish
Required Materials
- Wine glass
- Jigger
- Bar spoon
See 5 variations of the recipe at the end.
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Did You Know?
The Aperol Spritz became extremely popular worldwide in recent years thanks to its presence on social media. In 2019, it was considered the most popular cocktail on Instagram, with thousands of photos posted under the hashtag #AperolSpritz!
Instructions
- Let’s get started! First, fill the glass with ice, about halfway or maybe a little more. Be sure to use large ice cubes to avoid them melting too quickly and diluting the cocktail.
- Now, using a jigger, measure 3 oz (90 ml) of Aperol and pour it into the glass over the ice. Aperol will give that delicious orange flavor and a unique bitter touch.
- Next, measure 3 oz (90 ml) of Prosecco with the jigger and add it to the glass. The Prosecco will add the bubbles and that fresh touch to the cocktail.
- It’s time to add 1 oz (30 ml) of sparkling water to complete the mix. This will give the cocktail a refreshing and balanced touch.
- Next, use a bar spoon to gently stir the mixture. Be sure to mix well, but without stirring too much to maintain the Prosecco bubbles.
- Finally, garnish your drink with a slice of orange, placing it on the rim of the glass or inside the cocktail for a decorative touch and an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Preparation Tips
- Don’t forget to use a good quality Prosecco for a fresher, bubblier taste.
- Try using large ice cubes to prevent them from melting too quickly and diluting the drink and its flavor.
- If you prefer a lighter drink, adjust the amount of Aperol or sparkling water to your taste.
- For an extra touch of freshness and color, you can add a slice of lemon in addition to the orange slice.
- When stirring with the bar spoon, it’s important to do it gently to avoid losing the Prosecco bubbles too quickly.
Tasting Notes
- The Aperol Spritz has a balanced taste between sweetness and bitterness, with a citrusy orange touch.
- The bubbles from the Prosecco add freshness and a slight acidity, while the Aperol contributes a herbal complexity, making it a delicious drink.
- The sparkling water adds a refreshing touch to the cocktail, making each sip light, easy to drink, and delightful.
- The orange slice not only decorates your drink but enhances the flavor with a vibrant citrus touch.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Sugars: 9 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
Nutritional Benefits
The Aperol Spritz is an excellent choice, refreshing and low in calories for those looking for a light and flavorful drink. Aperol, known for its orange and herbal taste, is also low in calories and contains antioxidants from oranges. On the other hand, Prosecco, in addition to adding a bubbly touch, provides a light source of alcohol, while the sparkling water keeps the drink fresh and balanced. Finally, the orange slice not only adds a pop of color and aroma but also provides vitamin C, which is an important antioxidant for the immune system.
History or Inspiration of the Recipe
The Aperol Spritz is a classic cocktail from the Veneto region in Italy, where it has been a favorite for decades. Its origin dates back to the Austro-Hungarian Empire, when Austrian soldiers, not used to the strong Italian wines, began to “spritz” (dilute) wine with sparkling water. Over time, this tradition evolved into the Aperol Spritz, which became a symbol of the relaxed and elegant lifestyle of northern Italy.
Pairings
- The Aperol Spritz is simply ideal with appetizers like olives, nuts, or Parmesan cheese.
- This drink pairs perfectly with Mediterranean tapas, such as Serrano ham or bruschetta.
- Additionally, it’s perfect for pairing with seafood like grilled shrimp or fried calamari.
- It also goes well with Italian dishes, like a Margherita pizza or pasta with tomato sauce.
- The Aperol Spritz is a great option to accompany fresh salads, especially those with feta cheese and tomatoes.
Recipe Variations
- Aperol Spritz with a lemon twist: In this variation, simply add a bit of fresh lemon juice to the Aperol Spritz for an extra citrusy kick.
- Aperol Spritz with Gin: Here, substitute the Prosecco with a good gin for a stronger, herbal cocktail.
- Aperol Spritz with Strawberry: For this option, just add strawberry puree or some mashed fresh strawberries for a fruity and colorful touch.
- Aperol Spritz with Mint: This version is a favorite for many—just add fresh mint leaves for a refreshing and aromatic twist.
- Aperol Spritz with Campari: Simply substitute the Aperol for Campari for a more bitter and complex version of the cocktail.
The Aperol Spritz is definitely a great choice for those looking for a refreshing, delicious, and most importantly, easy-to-make drink. Its balanced and bubbly flavor makes it the perfect cocktail for any occasion, whether it’s a gathering with friends or a relaxing afternoon. So, simply enjoy it! Cheers!
Tastes of La Paz.
Aperol Spritz Cocktail
Servings: 1 glass
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
- 3 oz of Aperol (90 ml)
- 3 oz of Prosecco (90 ml)
- 1 oz of sparkling water (30 ml)
- Ice to taste
- Orange slice for garnish
Required Materials
- Wine glass
- Jigger
- Bar spoon
Instructions
- Let’s get started! First, fill the glass with ice, about halfway or maybe a little more. Be sure to use large ice cubes to avoid them melting too quickly and diluting the cocktail.
- Now, using a jigger, measure 3 oz (90 ml) of Aperol and pour it into the glass over the ice. Aperol will give that delicious orange flavor and a unique bitter touch.
- Next, measure 3 oz (90 ml) of Prosecco with the jigger and add it to the glass. The Prosecco will add the bubbles and that fresh touch to the cocktail.
- It’s time to add 1 oz (30 ml) of sparkling water to complete the mix. This will give the cocktail a refreshing and balanced touch.
- Next, use a bar spoon to gently stir the mixture. Be sure to mix well, but without stirring too much to maintain the Prosecco bubbles.
- Finally, garnish your drink with a slice of orange, placing it on the rim of the glass or inside the cocktail for a decorative touch and an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Sugars: 9 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
*Alternative for the Jigger
If you don't have a jigger, you can use:
Measuring spoons:
- 1 oz = 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
- 1/2 oz = 1 tablespoon (15 ml)
Kitchen measuring cups:
Many kitchen measuring cups have markings for ounces and milliliters, allowing you to accurately measure the necessary ingredients without any problem.
*Alternative for the Shaker
If you don't have a shaker, try one of these alternatives:
Jar with a lid (like a Mason jar):
Fill it with the ingredients and ice, seal the lid tightly, and shake it like a shaker. It works great for mixing and chilling ingredients.
Coffee thermos:
A coffee thermos (well cleaned, to avoid mixing smells or flavors) can function as a shaker when closed and shaken. It’s a solid option.
Tall glass and spoon:
If your mocktail or cocktail doesn’t need a strong shake, simply mix the ingredients directly in the glass with a long spoon (or bar spoon, if you have one) and add ice at the end.