Italian Greyhound Cocktail Recipe (Grapefruit Drink)

​If you’re a fan of grapefruit, look no further than this amazing Italian Greyhound Cocktail! This drink is perfect for happy hour and a great cocktail on a hot summer day. Not only is it delicious, it’s pretty, too! Add a sprig of rosemary or a grapefruit wedge, and you have a chic drink to sip on. If you want more fun drinks, check out my cocktail recipes.

I first had an Italian Greyhound Cocktail at a friend’s house and have been hooked ever since. A classic Greyhound cocktail usually consists of just two main ingredients: vodka and grapefruit juice. But I’ve modernized this drink with the addition of Campari and grapefruit soda.

Plus, I gave this grapefruit cocktail a salted rim to make it extra pretty. I love Italian cocktails – some of my other favorites are my Limoncello Martini and my Aperol Margarita.

This cocktail is the perfect addition to any Italian-inspired menu. Pair this delicious drink with an easy app like my Pesto Bruschetta with Marinated Tomatoes and a pasta like my Authentic Carbonara Recipe with No Cream, and you have yourself a party! Looking for a dessert? Look no further than my Espresso Martinis!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s bubbly – What’s more fun than effervescence? Grapefruit soda adds a little fizz to this fun drink!
• Fresh grapefruit juice – Grapefruit is such a fun flavor for cocktails; the fresh juice makes this drink pretty, too!
• It’s classic with a twist – I took a classic Greyhound drink, added a splash of Campari and soda, and made it extra fun! 

Ingredients

• Vodka – A neutral spirit, vodka serves as the cocktail’s backbone, allowing other flavors to shine. Opt for a high-quality vodka for a smoother taste; chilling it beforehand enhances the refreshing kick.
• Grapefruit juice –  Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice brings a bright, citrusy punch to the cocktail. Use fresh juice for optimal flavor, and consider mixing different grapefruit varieties for a unique twist.
• Campari – Campari, a vibrant red Italian aperitif, adds a bittersweet complexity to the drink. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste; its bold flavor can be an acquired taste.
• Grapefruit soda – Grapefruit soda provides effervescence and a hint of sweetness. Choose a high-quality soda or experiment with different brands for varying levels of sweetness and dizziness.

Substitutions

• No vodka? –  Substitute with gin for a botanical twist, or tequila can bring a hint of agave sweetness.
• Skip the grapefruit juice – Experiment with other citrus juices like orange or blood orange. For a lower-sugar option, try grapefruit-flavored sparkling water.
• Instead of grapefruit soda – Try soda water with a splash of grapefruit juice for a lighter option. Or ginger beer can add a spicy kick. You can also use plain club soda.

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Fill a shaker with ice. Pour in vodka, freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, and Campari.

Step 2: Shake well to mix and chill the ingredients.

Step 3: Salt the rim of a glass and add ice.

Step 4: Strain the mixture into a glass. Top with grapefruit soda and garnish with rosemary and grapefruit slices.

Tips and Notes

• Chill your ingredients – Ensure your vodka, grapefruit juice, and Campari are well-chilled before mixing. A frosty base enhances the overall refreshing experience of the cocktail.
• Garnishes – When adding a sprig of rosemary, gently bruise it before garnishing to release its aromatic oils. This small step enhances the fragrance every time you take a sip.
• Adjust Campari to taste – Campari can be bold, so start with a smaller amount and gradually add more if desired. This allows you to find the perfect balance between bitterness and sweetness for your palate.

Recipe FAQs

Serving Suggestions

• Brunch cocktails –  Make brunch special by serving the Italian Greyhound and spreading fresh fruit, pastries, and savory brunch dishes. Its citrusy kick makes it a perfect daytime indulgence.
• Make it salty – Serve the Italian Greyhound in a chilled highball glass with a sea salt rim for a coastal-inspired presentation. It adds a hint of savory goodness to every sip.
• Small bites pairing –  Pair the cocktail with Mediterranean-inspired appetizers or tapas. The bittersweet and citrusy notes beautifully complement dishes like bruschetta or grilled shrimp.