Blood Orange Spritz – 5 Minutes Easy Drink
If you are after a versatile cocktail perfect for a casual friends meet up or a fancy pre dinner drink, then you can’t miss this blood orange sprtiz recipe! Spritz is one of the most popular cocktail served during the ‘aperitivo’ and after you try it, rest assured you will understand why!
This blood orange spritz recipe is a take on the classic spritz with an extra layer of sweetness and tanginess that will make this drink even better in terms of vibrant flavour!
What is spritz? Where does it come from?
A spritz is a classic Italian cocktail that originated in Northern Italy, specifically in the Veneto region. The word ‘spritz’ comes from the German word ‘spritzer’ which means ‘to splash’. The name and spritz date back to the 19th century when the Northern Italy was occupied by the Austro-Hungarian empire. The Austrian soldiers found the Italian wines far too strange and started to dilute hem with a splash of water, leading to the creation of spritz as we know it later on.
Traditionally, spritz is made with a base of white wine or prosecco, splash of bitter liqueur and topped with sparkling water or soda. This cocktail is known for its light, fizzy, slightly bitter flavor, making it the perfect drink to enjoy during an aperitivo.
In the early 20th century, the spritz started evolving to the recipe we know today. Bitter liqueur like Aperol and Campari were added to the mix, giving it the distinct flavor and color. Today, we can find plenty of variations like Campari’s spritz, Hugo spritz (with elderflower liqueur), blood orange spritz gin, limoncello spritz, aperol blood orange spritz mocktail and our main character, blood orange spritz.
What is a Blood Orange Spritz?
The Blood Orange Spritz is a more recent and creative twist on the classic Italian spritz. It highlights the unique, vibrant flavor of blood oranges, which are prized for their rich, tangy taste and striking crimson color. Blood oranges, are often associated with Mediterranean countries like Italy and Spain, add a natural sweetness and citrusy brightness that beautifully complements the bitter liqueur and sparkling wine in the cocktail.
This variation captures the essence of a spritz while celebrating the seasonal, fruity elegance of blood oranges, making it perfect for winter and early spring when blood oranges are at their peak.
Are blood oranges good for you?
They absolutely are! Blood oranges are believed to have originated around the 18th century in the Southern countries of the Mediterranean and are a very popular crop in Sicily. The ruby red colour that defines them comes from anthocyanins, a pigment and antioxidant not typically found in other oranges. Not only do blood oranges add a stunning visual element to cocktails, but their sweet-tart flavor profile also enhances the depth of the drink. They are a source of:
- Vitamin C: which Boosts your immune system, supports collagen production, and promotes healthy skin.
- High in Antioxidants: Packed with anthocyanins, which reduce inflammation, protect cells, and support heart health.
- Potassium: which helps to regulate blood pressure and improve blood vessel function.
- Supports Digestion: Low in calories and high in fiber, keeping you full longer and aiding gut health.
- Good for Skin: Antioxidants and vitamin C combat aging and improve skin tone.
- Boosts Metabolism: Citrus flavonoids may support weight management and energy levels.
- Low in Sugar: Sweet yet with a moderate glycemic index, great for managing blood sugar levels.
What ingredients do I need for this blood orange spritz?
I love recipes that require very few ingredients and even better when we talk about drinks! this Blood Orange Spritz is a vibrant, citrusy upgrade to the classic cocktail. Perfect for brunches, gatherings, or even a little self-care moment. The blood orange spritz ingredients you will need are:
- Crushed ice: I love my drinks chilled, and this one is no exception. If you’re ordering a spritz in Italy, you’ll most likely get it served with ice. However, feel free to skip it if you prefer your drinks at room temperature.
- freshly squeezed blood orange juice: the main star of this cocktail, sweet, tangy, and vibrant, blood oranges give this spritz its beautiful color and unique flavor.
- Aperol: another main character and one of the basics in spritz, this will give that signature bittersweet kick that is typical of this drink.
- prosecco: add lightness and bubbles to your drink, a must for any alcoholic spritz recipe! Pick whatever brand or type you like!
- club soda: to finish off the drink and add a refreshing sparkle to it!
- blood orange slice or rosemary sprig: garnish with a slice for an even better show stopper, or add a rosemary sprig, which is the best flavour combo with the orange!
How do I make this blood orange spritz recipe?
This blood orange aperol spritz is so easy to make and so quick! You start by adding ice to two glasses. Usually spritz is served in wine glasses, but you can use anything that comes handy, just make sure that you have glasses that are on the larger side.
Then divide all ingredients between the two glasses. Start with the aperol, the blood orange juice, the prosecco and top up with club soda. Stir each of the drinks and garnish. You can use a slice of blood orange or a rosemary sprig that adds freshness. Enjoy your orange spritz!
5 Minutes Delicious & Easy Blood Orange Spritz
Ingredients
- 4 oz freshly squeezed blood orange juice
- 6 oz Aperol
- 8 oz prosecco
- 2 oz club soda
- ice
- blood orange slice or rosemary sprig to garnish
Instructions
- Begin by adding ice to two glasses* (around 3/4 full).
- In each glass, add all ingredients: the Aperol, the blood orange juice, the prosecco and top up with club soda.
- Stir each drink and garnish with a slice of blood orange or a rosemary sprig. Enjoy your blood orange spritz cocktail!**
Notes
** spritz in North of Italy is always served at aperitivo, which is cocktail hour, you can find it paired with small nibbles like crisps, olives, nuts and tramezzini
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Do you have any more Italian drink recipes to suggest?
We do indeed, not as many as with other Italian recipes, but our Italian drink list is growing for sure:
- sicilian limoncello – refreshing and tangy liqueur perfect for any citrus lover!
- pistachio Liqueur – nothing beats the green gold paired with alcohol in out house, creamy and so so delicious!
- homemade almond milk: sure not an alcoholic drink, but this is absurdly easy and so delicious!
- limoncello cream – refreshing and so so perfect to digest after dinner!
- Campari tonic – refreshing and bittersweet, done with only three ingredients, should i say more?
- lemon sorbet – okay, this might be a bit of a hybrid between a drink and dessert, but this is the one to have for a great palate cleanser after a big Italian lunch or dinner.
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