Okay, grab your glasses and let’s chat! Today, we’re making my all-time favorite summer cooler: a limoncello spritz with prosecco. The first time I tasted a limoncello spritz with prosecco was on a girls’ trip to the Amalfi Coast. The sun was shining, we were laughing (maybe a little too loudly!), and this bubbly, citrusy drink just captured the whole dolce vita vibe perfectly. I knew I had to recreate it when I got home.
Of course, my first attempts were… well, let’s just say they weren’t quite as magical as that first sip in Italy. I kept messing up the proportions – too much limoncello, not enough prosecco, you name it! But after a few tweaks (and a lot of taste-testing, naturally!), I finally nailed it. This limoncello spritz with prosecco is now a staple at our family gatherings and summer BBQs. It’s so refreshing, and honestly, so easy to throw together, even on a busy weeknight. I remember one particularly hectic evening, I managed to whip up a batch of this while simultaneously helping my son with his homework and rescuing a burnt pizza from the oven. That’s when I knew this limoncello spritz with prosecco was a keeper. It’s become our little taste of the Amalfi Coast, right here in our backyard. Let’s get started, shall we? It’s easier than you think!
INGREDIENTS
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious limoncello spritz with prosecco.
- 3 oz Prosecco: I always use a dry (Brut) Prosecco for my limoncello spritz with prosecco. It balances out the sweetness of the limoncello perfectly. You can find a good bottle at most grocery stores or liquor stores. Prosecco is a sparkling wine from Italy, known for its light and crisp character. The ‘Brut’ designation indicates a dry style, meaning it has less residual sugar. This is crucial for balancing the sweetness of the limoncello.
- 2 oz Limoncello: Of course, the star of the show! I prefer using a good quality limoncello; you can really taste the difference. My favorite brand is Caravella, but feel free to use whatever you can find. Limoncello is a lemon liqueur primarily produced in Southern Italy, especially in the region around the Gulf of Naples, the Sorrentine Peninsula and the Amalfi Coast. It is made from lemon zest, steeped in alcohol until the oil is released, then mixed with simple syrup. The quality of the lemons greatly affects the final product.
- 1 oz Soda Water: Adds a little extra fizz and dilutes the drink just enough. Club soda works great too. Soda water, also known as club soda or sparkling water, adds effervescence and dilutes the intensity of the other ingredients, creating a more refreshing and balanced drink.
- Orange Slice or Lemon Twist, for Garnish: Makes it look extra fancy! Garnishes aren’t just for show; they add to the aroma and overall experience of the drink. The citrus oils from the peel enhance the lemon flavor of the limoncello.
- Ice Cubes: Plenty of them! Ice is essential for keeping the spritz cold and refreshing, especially on a hot summer day. The amount of ice can be adjusted to suit personal preference, but be generous for best results.
Now, a little kitchen wisdom from my mom (who, let’s be honest, knows everything about cocktails): Chill your prosecco and limoncello before mixing. It makes a HUGE difference! Nobody likes a lukewarm limoncello spritz with prosecco. Also, you can often find Limoncello on sale at your local liquor store during the summer months, so stock up then.
As for prep shortcuts, sometimes I’ll freeze lemon or orange slices ahead of time and use them as ice cubes. Adds extra flavor and keeps the drink cold! For storage tips, leftover limoncello should be kept in the freezer, and the prosecco should be recorked (with a sparkling wine stopper!) and stored in the fridge if you don’t finish the bottle. I doubt that will be a problem, though! This limoncello spritz with prosecco is that good!
HOW TO MAKE – STEP-BY-STEP
Alright, let’s get mixing! This limoncello spritz with prosecco recipe is so easy, you’ll be sipping on one in no time. I promise!
- Fill your glass with ice: I like to use a large wine glass, but any glass will do. Just make sure it’s filled to the brim with ice. Nobody wants a warm limoncello spritz with prosecco! The shape of the glass can enhance the drinking experience. A large wine glass allows for more aroma to be released, while a highball glass keeps the drink colder for longer.
- Pour in the Prosecco: Gently pour 3 ounces of Prosecco over the ice. Try not to let it fizz over the top! I learned the hard way with limoncello spritz with prosecco that pouring slowly prevents spills. Pouring the Prosecco slowly helps to preserve its bubbles, ensuring a fizzier and more enjoyable drink. Tilting the glass also helps to minimize fizzing.
- Add the Limoncello: Next, add 2 ounces of limoncello. The vibrant yellow color is so inviting, isn’t it? At this point, your limoncello spritz with prosecco is already looking amazing. The limoncello not only adds flavor but also contributes to the drink’s beautiful color. The quality of the limoncello will significantly impact the final taste, so choose a reputable brand.
- Top with Soda Water: Add 1 ounce of soda water. This gives it that extra bit of fizz that makes a spritz so refreshing. Don’t worry if your limoncello spritz with prosecco bubbles up a bit, that’s perfectly normal. The soda water adds a lighter, crisper quality to the drink compared to using only Prosecco. It also helps to balance the sweetness and alcohol content.
- Stir Gently: Use a long spoon to gently stir the mixture. Be careful not to over-stir, or you’ll lose all the bubbles! In my kitchen, making this limoncello spritz with prosecco usually takes less than five minutes. Over-stirring can cause the Prosecco and soda water to lose their carbonation, resulting in a flat and less appealing drink. A gentle stir is all that’s needed to combine the ingredients.
- Garnish: Add an orange slice or lemon twist for garnish. I always have citrus fruits on hand, so I usually go with whatever looks best. While the limoncello spritz with prosecco is mixing, sometimes I will pre-cut the garnishes and measure out the liquids in advance if I am expecting guests. Preparing garnishes in advance can save time and ensure a consistent presentation, especially when serving a large group.
- Serve Immediately: Your limoncello spritz with prosecco is ready to enjoy! Grab a straw (optional) and find a sunny spot to relax. Your limoncello spritz with prosecco should smell like a citrus grove and a celebration all in one. Trust me, it tastes even better than it smells! Serving the drink immediately ensures that it remains cold and bubbly, providing the best possible drinking experience.
And that’s it! A delicious, refreshing limoncello spritz with prosecco in just a few minutes. This has become my go-to easy spritz recipe when I’m craving something light and bubbly.
SERVING
Okay, so you’ve got your limoncello spritz with prosecco all mixed up and ready to go. Now, what? Well, my family enjoys this limoncello spritz with prosecco any time of day, really! But it’s especially perfect for a summer afternoon on the patio, or as an italian aperitivo before dinner.
The kids love our limoncello spritz with prosecco when I make a big pitcher for the grown-ups at family gatherings. Of course, they get sparkling lemonade! As for pairings, this limoncello spritz with prosecco goes perfectly with light appetizers like bruschetta, olives, and cheese. It’s also great with grilled seafood or a light pasta dish. I often serve it with my Greek Salad With Meat – the flavors complement each other beautifully.
This limoncello spritz with prosecco is perfect for summer parties, backyard BBQs, or even just a relaxing evening at home. As for presentation, I like to serve it in pretty wine glasses with a colorful straw and a generous garnish. It just makes it feel extra special. If you have extra limoncello spritz with prosecco, you can always freeze it into popsicles for a refreshing treat later! I’ve even added a splash to sparkling water for a non-alcoholic version that everyone can enjoy.
My friends always ask for this limoncello spritz with prosecco recipe when they come over. It’s become my signature drink! I even made a big batch for my sister’s bridal shower, and it was a huge hit. For a seasonal variation, try adding a few fresh raspberries or a sprig of rosemary for a festive twist.
FAQs
Okay, let’s tackle some frequently asked questions about this delicious limoncello spritz with prosecco. I’ve heard it all, so don’t be shy!
- Can I make this limoncello spritz recipe ahead of time?While you can technically mix it ahead of time, I don’t recommend it. The bubbles will fizzle out, and it just won’t be as refreshing. It’s best to make each limoncello spritz with prosecco fresh, right before serving.
- What if I don’t have Prosecco? Can I use something else?Prosecco is definitely the best choice for an authentic limoncello spritz with prosecco, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use another sparkling wine like Cava or even Champagne. Just make sure it’s on the drier side.
- My limoncello spritz with prosecco is too sweet! What do I do?Ah, a common problem! You can add a splash more soda water or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to balance out the sweetness. Next time, try using a dryer Prosecco. You know what I do when my limoncello spritz with prosecco is too sweet? I just add a splash more soda water and it always does the trick!
- Can I make a big batch of limoncello spritz with prosecco for a party?Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. But remember to add the Prosecco and soda water right before serving to keep it bubbly.
- What’s the best way to store limoncello?Limoncello should be stored in the freezer. It won’t freeze solid, but it will get nice and icy, which is perfect for a limoncello spritz with prosecco!
- My Prosecco went flat! Is my limoncello spritz with prosecco ruined?Not necessarily! If your Prosecco has lost its fizz, you can try adding a splash of club soda or sparkling water to revive it. It won’t be quite the same, but it will still be delicious. This has happened to me before. Sometimes adding a small amount of ginger ale or tonic water will add some more bubbles and a little bit of flavour.
- Can I make this a non-alcoholic version?You sure can! Just replace the Prosecco with sparkling white grape juice or non-alcoholic sparkling wine. And instead of Limoncello, use a lemon syrup or lemonade. It won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be a refreshing and festive drink.
My Final Thoughts:
This limoncello spritz with prosecco recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of happy times with friends and family. It’s the perfect drink for celebrating the simple joys of life. And honestly, it’s just so darn easy to make! This limoncello spritz with prosecco is definitely one of my favourite prosecco cocktail recipes.
My limoncello spritz with prosecco Pro Tips:
- Always chill your ingredients beforehand. It makes a world of difference.
- Don’t over-stir. You want to keep those bubbles alive!
- Get creative with your garnishes. Fresh herbs, berries, or even edible flowers can add a beautiful touch.
As for variations, I’ve tried adding a splash of Aperol for a slightly bitter twist, or muddling a few fresh mint leaves for an extra refreshing kick. My husband loves it with a squeeze of grapefruit juice, while my daughter prefers it with a few fresh raspberries. My sister adds a splash of elderflower liqueur, which is absolutely divine. The great thing about this limoncello spritz with prosecco is that you can really make it your own.
I hope you’ll give this limoncello spritz with prosecco recipe a try. It’s the perfect way to transport yourself to the Amalfi Coast, even if just for a few minutes. And who knows, maybe it will become a family favorite for you too! It’s an easy spritz recipe that never disappoints. Cheers to good times and delicious drinks! Have fun making it your own.
Easy Limoncello Spritz with Prosecco
Cool off with this refreshing Limoncello Spritz, a vibrant blend of limoncello, prosecco, and sparkling water. It’s the perfect easy cocktail for summer gatherings or a relaxing evening.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 2 oz Limoncello
- 4 oz Prosecco
- 2 oz Sparkling Water
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slice, for garnish
- Mint sprig, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Fill a wine glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in the limoncello.
- Add the prosecco.
- Top with sparkling water.
- Gently stir to combine.
- Garnish with a lemon slice and a mint sprig (optional).
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
For a sweeter spritz, add a splash of simple syrup or a flavored liqueur like elderflower liqueur.