Aperol Spritz Recipe

Prosecco: A sparkling white wine from Italy that adds effervescence and a touch of sweetness to the cocktail.

Aperol: An Italian apéritif with a bright orange color and a bittersweet flavor, made from a blend of herbs and roots.

Soda water: A splash of soda water adds a refreshing fizz to the drink.

Orange: A slice of orange is used as a garnish, adding a fresh citrus aroma and a pop of color.

When preparing an Aperol Spritz, ensure that the prosecco is well-chilled before mixing. This not only enhances the refreshing quality of the drink but also helps maintain the right balance of flavors. Pour the prosecco gently to preserve its bubbles, and add the Aperol slowly to avoid losing the effervescence. A quick stir can help blend the ingredients without disturbing the carbonation too much. Finally, use a fresh, juicy orange slice for garnish to add a burst of citrus aroma and a visually appealing touch.

• prosecco - Substitute with cava: Cava is a sparkling wine from Spain that has a similar flavor profile and effervescence to prosecco.

• prosecco - Substitute with champagne: Champagne offers a more luxurious option with a similar bubbly texture, though it may be slightly more expensive.

• aperol - Substitute with campari: Campari has a more bitter taste but can provide a similar vibrant color and complexity to the drink.

• aperol - Substitute with select aperitivo: This Italian aperitif has a similar flavor profile with a balance of bitter and sweet notes.

• soda water - Substitute with tonic water: Tonic water adds a slight bitterness and effervescence, making it a good alternative.

• soda water - Substitute with sparkling water: Sparkling water provides the same bubbly texture without altering the flavor significantly.

• orange - Substitute with lemon: Lemon can add a zesty and refreshing citrus note, though it will be slightly more tart.

• orange - Substitute with grapefruit: Grapefruit offers a similar citrus flavor with a hint of bitterness, complementing the other ingredients well.

• For short-term storage, keep the prosecco and aperol in the refrigerator to ensure they remain chilled and ready for your next Aperol Spritz.
• Store the soda water in a cool, dry place until opened. Once opened, refrigerate it to maintain its fizz.
• Keep orange slices fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for a few days.
• If you have leftover Aperol Spritz, which is unlikely, store it in a sealed container in the fridge. However, note that the soda water will lose its carbonation over time.
• To freeze orange slices, lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be used directly from the freezer as a garnish.
• Avoid freezing the mixed Aperol Spritz as the prosecco and soda water will lose their effervescence, and the texture will be compromised.

• Pour the Aperol Spritz into a large glass or pitcher.
• Add a few ice cubes to the glass or pitcher to chill the drink.
• Stir gently to mix the ingredients and ensure even cooling.
• Garnish with a fresh orange slice before serving.

For a more creative twist:

• Freeze the Aperol Spritz in ice cube trays.
• When ready to enjoy, place the Aperol Spritz ice cubes in a glass.
• Add a splash of soda water and a fresh orange slice.
• Stir gently and enjoy a chilled, refreshing drink.

• Wine glass: A large glass to hold the drink and ice, allowing the flavors to mix and the garnish to be displayed beautifully.

• Ice: Essential for chilling the drink and keeping it refreshing.

• Jigger: A measuring tool to ensure the correct proportions of prosecco and aperol.

• Bar spoon: Useful for gently stirring the drink to mix the ingredients without losing the carbonation.

• Knife: Needed to slice the orange for garnish.

• Cutting board: A surface to safely cut the orange.

Pre-chill your ingredients: Keep your prosecco and aperol in the fridge so they are already cold when you mix your Aperol Spritz.

Use pre-made ice: Have a tray of ice cubes ready in advance to quickly fill your glass.

Measure ahead: Pre-measure your prosecco and aperol into small containers for quick assembly.

Garnish prep: Slice your orange ahead of time and store it in the fridge.