Limoncello Spritz: the Easy Recipe for a Perfect, Refreshing and Tasty Italian Summer Drink!

The Limoncello Spritz is the perfect alcoholic cocktail for the summer, a variant of the iconic Venetian Spritz drink which, thanks to the presence of limoncello, one of the most loved Campanian digestives of all time, brings together, "in a single sip", the Italian peninsula, from north to south. Excellent to enjoy frozen during an aperitif overlooking the sea on the beach, or served in the drinks corner at a birthday party, it is prepared in less than five minutes with just three main ingredients.

Simply place the ice cubes in individual glasses and then pour the alcoholic mixture made with limoncello, prosecco and soda, completing everything with a slice of lemon and a sprig of mint. You will thus obtain a refreshing alcoholic drink with pleasantly citrus notes, to be consumed between one chat and the other, perhaps accompanied by many finger foods.

What is Limoncello Spritz?

The Limoncello Spritz, a delightful Italian cocktail, has roots that blend the rich history of limoncello with the popular Aperol Spritz. Limoncello, a lemon liqueur from Southern Italy, particularly the Amalfi Coast, has been enjoyed for centuries as a refreshing digestif. The spritz, originating from the Veneto region, became famous in the 20th century for its light and bubbly character. Combining these two traditions, the Limoncello Spritz emerged as a modern twist, offering a vibrant, citrusy alternative to the classic spritz, perfect for sunny afternoons and aperitivo hours.

Is This More Alcoholic Than a Normal Aperol Spritz?

A Limoncello Spritz can be more alcoholic than a classic Aperol Spritz. This is because limoncello typically has a higher alcohol content than Aperol. However, the overall alcohol content will also depend on the proportions and the specific brands used.

Tips to Get the Best Limoncello Spritz

• If you don't have soda at home you can easily replace it with frozen sparkling water.
• For a more spectacular result, you can choose glass cups and then "frost" the rim by turning them upside down in granulated sugar .
• We filled the glasses halfway with ice cubes : perhaps it may seem like too much to some but, in reality, it is important to know that its function, despite what one might think, is not to water down the cocktail, but to keep it at the right temperature , giving it the correct degree of dilution.
• Ensure your prosecco, limoncello, and soda water are well-chilled before making the cocktail. This keeps the drink refreshingly cold without diluting it too much with ice.
• Choose a dry prosecco to balance the sweetness of the limoncello. A good-quality prosecco enhances the overall flavor and fizz of the cocktail.
• When adding prosecco and soda water, pour them gently down the side of the glass to preserve the bubbles and create a more visually appealing drink.

Can I Substitute Prosecco With Champagne?

Yes, you can substitute prosecco with champagne in a Limoncello Spritz. Both are sparkling wines, but champagne has a more complex and robust flavor compared to the lighter, fruitier taste of prosecco.

Can I Make This in Advance?

While you can prepare some components in advance, it's best to mix the drink just before serving. Combining the limoncello, prosecco, and soda water in advance will cause it to lose its fizz. Instead, chill the ingredients separately and assemble the drink when you're ready to enjoy it for the freshest, bubbliest experience.

What Can I Serve Limoncello Spritz With?

An antipasti platter, brimming with prosciutto, salami, olives, and marinated vegetables, provides a savory counterpoint to the cocktail’s sweet and tart notes. Light seafood dishes, such as shrimp cocktail, smoked salmon crostini, or ceviche, enhance the drink’s citrusy freshness, while crisp salads featuring arugula, fennel, and citrus segments offer a refreshing balance. A cheese board with soft varieties like burrata, ricotta, and mozzarella, paired with honey and fresh fruits, complements the vibrant profile of the Limoncello Spritz beautifully. For a heartier option, light pasta dishes with citrusy sauces or simple aglio e olio allow the cocktail’s flavors to shine. To finish on a sweet note, lemon-based desserts like lemon tart, lemon sorbet, or lemon ricotta cookies harmonize perfectly with the cocktail’s citrus essence.

More Summer-y Drinks to Try

Classic Mimosa Cocktail

Bellini Cocktail

Strawberry Spritz

Pina Colada

How to Store Limoncello Spritz

To store Limoncello Spritz pour any remaining cocktail into a tightly sealed, airtight container to preserve the carbonation and prevent any unwanted flavors from seeping in, in the refrigerator to keep the drink cool and refreshing. They will last for up to a day or two.

How to Make Limoncello Spritz

Put the ice in the glass and measure the limoncello.

Add the limoncello to the glasses and then add the prosecco wine.

Finish the drink with a bit of soda water or sparkling water. Then, mix the ingredients together.

Cut some fresh lemon slices and use them to garnish your cocktail.

To finish it off, use some fresh mint leaves to top the limoncello spritz. Enjoy!