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.

Italian greyhound cocktail (orange drink) in a rocks glass wtih ice, salted rim, and a fresh sprig of rosemary garnish.

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
Ingredients
Substitutions
Step by Step Instructions
Tips and Notes
Recipe FAQs
Serving Suggestions

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

Adding Campari to a silver cocktail shaker.

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.

Pouring an italian greyhound cocktail into a glass.

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

A traditional Greyhound cocktail is a simple and classic drink made with vodka and freshly squeezed grapefruit juice. It’s known for its refreshing citrus flavor and is often served over ice.

The Italian Greyhound adds a twist to the classic recipe by incorporating Campari and topping it with grapefruit soda. This variation introduces bittersweet notes and effervescence, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

While fresh grapefruit juice is recommended for optimal flavor, you can use store-bought juice as a convenient alternative. Just be mindful of added sugars, and consider diluting with a splash of water if the juice is too sweet.

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.

Please leave a review if you make this recipe! Don’t forget to follow @seasonedandsalted on Instagram!