There’s something truly magical about an Aperol Spritz that captures the essence of Australian summers. This vibrant, zesty cocktail has taken Australia by storm, becoming a staple at beachside bars, backyard gatherings, and Sunday brunches. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a sun-soaked get-together with friends, the Aperol Spritz is the perfect companion to keep things light and refreshing.
How to make Aperol Spritz
Aperol Spritz is a popular cocktail that originated in Italy. It’s typically made with Aperol (an Italian aperitif), Prosecco (Italian sparkling wine), soda water, and garnished with an orange slice.
Ingredients
- 3 parts Prosecco: Go for a dry Prosecco to complement the sweetness of the Aperol.
- 2 parts Aperol: This bright orange aperitif gives the drink its signature color and taste.
- 1 part soda water: Just a splash to add a bit of fizz.
- Ice cubes: The more generous, the better.
- Orange slices: For garnish and an extra hint of citrus.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Glass
Start by filling a large wine glass or balloon glass with plenty of ice. The more ice, the colder and more refreshing your Aperol Spritz will be.
Step 2: Pour the Prosecco
Pour 3 parts Prosecco over the ice. If you’re using a measuring jigger, this typically translates to about 90ml of Prosecco. The sparkling wine should reach just below the halfway mark of your glass.
Step 3: Add the Aperol
Next, add 2 parts Aperol (around 60ml if you’re measuring). Pour it in gently to maintain the bubbles from the Prosecco.
Step 4: Top with Soda Water
Finish the drink with a splash of soda water (approximately 30ml). This adds just enough fizz to balance the cocktail.
Step 5: Stir and Garnish
Give the drink a gentle stir to mix all the ingredients without losing too much enthusiasm. Finally, garnish with a slice of orange. The bright citrus not only looks appealing but also enhances the flavor profile.
Tips for the Perfect Aperol Spritz
Use Quality Ingredients
The quality of your Prosecco and Aperol makes a big difference. Choose a good dry Prosecco and ensure your Aperol is fresh to achieve the best taste.
Keep Everything Chilled
Make sure your Prosecco, Aperol, and soda water are well-chilled before you start. This helps keep the drink refreshing even on the hottest Australian days.
Customize Your Garnish
While an orange slice is classic, you can get creative with your garnishes. Try adding a sprig of mint for an extra refreshing touch or a dash of bitters for a slight twist.
Balance the Sweetness
If you find the Aperol a bit too sweet, adjust the ratio of soda water to Prosecco to suit your taste. Some people prefer a bit more soda to tone down the sweetness.
Serve Immediately
Aperol Spritz is best served immediately after mixing, while it’s still bubbly and fresh. If you’re making it for a group, prepare each glass individually rather than in a large batch to maintain the perfect balance of flavors.
What to serve with
An Aperol Spritz is more than just a refreshing cocktail; it’s an experience best enjoyed with delectable bites that elevate its vibrant flavors. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or an elegant soirée, here are some delicious food pairings that complement the zesty and slightly bitter profile of an Aperol Spritz.
Appetizers
- Prosciutto and Melon: The salty, savory taste of prosciutto contrasts beautifully with the sweet, juicy melon, creating a balanced bite that enhances the Aperol Spritz’s citrusy notes.
- Caprese Skewers: Simple yet elegant, Caprese skewers made with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze offer a refreshing complement to your drink. The acidity of the tomatoes and the creaminess of the mozzarella work harmoniously with the cocktail’s flavors.
- Bruschetta: Top crusty slices of baguette with a mix of diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and a splash of olive oil. The bright, tangy flavors of bruschetta are a delightful match for the spritz.
Main Courses
- Seafood Pasta: Light and flavorful seafood pasta, such as linguine with clams or shrimp scampi, pairs wonderfully with an Aperol Spritz. The citrusy, slightly bitter notes of the cocktail cut through the richness of the seafood, creating a balanced dining experience.
- Grilled Chicken with Lemon and Herbs: A simple grilled chicken dish marinated with lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs provides a savory backdrop that complements the drink’s zesty profile. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
- Margherita Pizza: The classic combination of fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil on a thin, crispy crust is an ideal pairing. The simplicity and freshness of a Margherita pizza enhance the Aperol Spritz’s vibrant flavors.
Desserts
- Orange Olive Oil Cake: A moist and flavorful orange olive oil cake underscores the citrus elements of the Aperol Spritz. It’s a light dessert that doesn’t overpower the palate, making it an excellent choice to round off your meal.
- Lemon Sorbet: For a refreshing finish, serve a scoop of lemon sorbet. The tartness of the sorbet aligns beautifully with the drink’s bitterness, providing a clean, palate-cleansing effect.
- Tiramisu: Indulge in a classic Italian dessert like tiramisu. Its rich, creamy layers of mascarpone and coffee-soaked ladyfingers offer a delightful contrast to the light and effervescent Aperol Spritz.
Snack Pairings
- Olives and Nuts: A simple yet satisfying snack of mixed olives and roasted nuts is perfect for nibbling while sipping your spritz. The salty and savory flavors of the olives, along with the crunch of the nuts, make for an excellent accompaniment.
- Cheese Platter: Create a cheese platter featuring a mix of soft and hard cheeses like brie, gouda, and aged cheddar. Add some honey, figs, and crackers to complete the platter. The variety of textures and flavors will complement the drink’s complexity.
Ingredients Substitutes
Creating the perfect Aperol Spritz is all about balance, but sometimes you might need to improvise with substitutes. Whether you’re out of a key ingredient or looking to try a twist on the classic recipe, here are some excellent alternatives for Prosecco, Aperol, and soda water that still deliver a delicious and refreshing cocktail.
Prosecco Substitutes
Champagne
Champagne is an excellent substitute for Prosecco if you want a more luxurious alternative. It brings a similar level of enthusiasm and dryness. Since Champagne is usually more robust in flavor, you might want to use a slightly smaller amount to ensure the Aperol still shines through.
Adjustment: Use 2.5 parts Champagne instead of 3 parts Prosecco.
Cava
Cava, a Spanish sparkling wine, is another excellent substitute. Like Prosecco, it tends to be dry, and its clean, crisp taste pairs well with Aperol.
Adjustment: Use equal parts Cava as you would Prosecco.
Sparkling Rosé
For a fun twist, try using a sparkling rosé. It adds a slight berry flavor and a lovely pink hue to your cocktail, making it visually striking.
Adjustment: Use equal parts sparkling rosé as you would Prosecco.
Aperol Substitutes
Campari
Campari is a close relative to Aperol but has a more intense bitter flavor. It’s darker and packs a punch, so you’ll want to use it sparingly. Campari can make your spritz slightly more robust and bitter.
Adjustment: Use 1.5 parts Campari instead of 2 parts Aperol.
Select Aperitivo
Select Aperitivo, another Italian aperitif, offers a balance between Campari’s bitterness and Aperol’s sweetness. It’s less common but worth seeking out for a nuanced flavor.
Adjustment: Use equal parts Select Aperitivo as you would Aperol.
Contratto Aperitivo
Contratto Aperitivo is a less bitter, slightly sweeter alternative to Aperol. It’s made with a blend of herbs and spices, providing a complex flavor profile.
Adjustment: Use equal parts Contratto Aperitivo as you would Aperol.
Soda Water Substitutes
Tonic Water
Tonic water can add an exciting twist with its slightly bitter and sweet flavor. It complements the bitterness of the aperitif and brings an extra layer of complexity to your spritz.
Adjustment: Use equal parts tonic water as you would soda water.
Sparkling Mineral Water
For a similar level of fizz without any additional flavor, sparkling mineral water is a great replacement. It’s crisp and refreshing, maintaining the lightness of the cocktail.
Adjustment: Use equal parts sparkling mineral water as you would soda water.
Club Soda
Club soda is the most straightforward substitute for soda water. It has a neutral flavor and the right amount of carbonation, making it an excellent stand-in.
Adjustment: Use equal parts club soda as you would soda water.
Final Thoughts
With these ingredients, instructions, and tips, you’re all set to create a delightful Aperol Spritz that brings a touch of Italian sunshine to your Australian summer.
Ingredients
- 3 parts Prosecco: Go for a dry Prosecco to complement the sweetness of the Aperol.
- 2 parts Aperol: This bright orange aperitif gives the drink its signature color and taste.
- 1 part soda water: Just a splash to add a bit of fizz.
- Ice cubes: The more generous, the better.
- Orange slices: For garnish and an extra hint of citrus.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Glass
Start by filling a large wine glass or balloon glass with plenty of ice. The more ice, the colder and more refreshing your Aperol Spritz will be.
Step 2: Pour the Prosecco
Pour 3 parts Prosecco over the ice. If you're using a measuring jigger, this typically translates to about 90ml of Prosecco. The sparkling wine should reach just below the halfway mark of your glass.
Step 3: Add the Aperol
Next, add 2 parts Aperol (around 60ml if you're measuring). Pour it in gently to maintain the bubbles from the Prosecco.
Step 4: Top with Soda Water
Finish the drink with a splash of soda water (approximately 30ml). This adds just enough fizz to balance the cocktail.
Step 5: Stir and Garnish
Give the drink a gentle stir to mix all the ingredients without losing too much enthusiasm. Finally, garnish with a slice of orange. The bright citrus not only looks appealing but also enhances the flavor profile.
