Grapefruit Aperol Spritz Recipe (Light Summer Cocktail)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fun twist on a classic – I love this recipe because it’s a simple upgrade to a traditional Aperol Spritz. The added grapefruit and grapefruit soda gives such a nice zing of flavor! 
• No cocktail shaker needed – All you need for this delicious cocktail is a large wine glass and something to stir it with (you can even use a straw!). 

Ingredients

• Aperol – Aperol is the star of the show, providing the signature bitter-sweet flavor that defines the Aperol Spritz cocktail. Aperol is an Italian apéritif made from a blend of bitter and sweet oranges, rhubarb, and herbs.
• Grapefruit juice – Grapefruit juice provides the tart and tangy base for the cocktail, complementing the bitterness of the Aperol and adding a refreshing citrusy zing. Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice is preferred for its vibrant flavor and natural sweetness.
• Prosecco – Prosecco adds bubbles and a touch of sweetness to the cocktail, balancing the bitterness of the Aperol and the tartness of the grapefruit juice. Prosecco is an Italian sparkling wine known for its light and fruity flavor. Also, it has delicate bubbles and a crisp, refreshing taste, making it an ideal choice for spritz cocktails.
• Grapefruit soda – Grapefruit soda adds an extra layer of citrus flavor and effervescence to the cocktail. Opt for a high-quality grapefruit soda with real fruit juice for the best flavor. Look for brands that use natural ingredients and avoid artificial sweeteners for a more authentic taste.
• Grapefruit wedge or slice for garnish –  A grapefruit slice or wedge serves as a visually stunning garnish, adding a pop of color and a hint of aroma to the cocktail. Choose a ripe grapefruit with a vibrant color and firm texture for garnishing. Cut the slice of grapefruit just before serving to ensure that it looks fresh and appetizing.

Substitutions and Variations

• Soda water – In a pinch, you can use plain soda water in place of grapefruit soda. Lime seltzer water would also be a delicious swap! 
• Make it sweeter – To make this drink sweeter, you can add a little bit of simple syrup. 

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Fill a glass with ice cubes to chill.

Step 2: Pour 1 1/2 ounces of Aperol over the ice.

Step 3: Add 2 ounces of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice. Pour in 2 ounces of Prosecco.

Step 4: Top off the drink with 1 ounce of grapefruit soda for extra dizziness. Give the cocktail a gentle stir to combine the ingredients. Garnish with a thin slice of grapefruit on the rim of the glass. Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Grapefruit Aperol Spritz!

Tips and Notes

• Chill your glassware – For an extra-refreshing experience, chill your glassware in the freezer before assembling the cocktail. This helps keep your drink cold for longer.
• Adjust sweetness to taste – Depending on personal preference and the sweetness of your grapefruit juice and soda, feel free to adjust the proportions of Aperol and grapefruit soda to achieve your desired level of sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

• Light bites – Pair your Grapefruit Aperol Spritz with a selection of delicious appetizers, such as Pesto Bruschetta and Prosciutto Crostini! These savory bites will complement the refreshing flavors of the spritz beautifully!
• Seafood –The zesty flavors of the Grapefruit Aperol Spritz complement seafood dishes really well! Serve grilled shrimp skewers with a squeeze of fresh lemon, crispy calamari with aioli dipping sauce, or a platter of oysters on the half shell with mignonette sauce for an elegant seafood feast.
• Al fresco dining – Take advantage of the warm weather by hosting an al fresco gathering in your backyard or patio. Set up a cozy outdoor lounge area with comfortable seating, and encourage guests to mingle and enjoy their spritz cocktails in the open air.