This classic Aperol Spritz cocktail is made with Aperol, sparkling wine, club soda and an orange slice for a slightly sweet, slightly bitter and simply gorgeous drink for sipping.

It's a short week for me, as we're heading to the beach later this afternoon after work and the kids' summer camps. (My daughter has been doing a horseback riding and farm camp this week, and she says that place is "magical." 🥰)

I'm looking forward to a long weekend of beach time and pool time, plus maybe a little fishing for good measure. My son has been all about throwing the cast net this summer, and he's getting pretty good!

But let's move right along to this beautiful beverage.

We’re having a mini cocktail month here on Family Food on the Table. 🍹🍸🥂

So far this July I’ve shared recipes for a frozen screwdriver, spiked Arnold Palmer and Pimm’s cup. 

Today, it’s another summery favorite - that’s really great all year round - with this simple, classic Aperol Spritz.

It’s bubbly, slightly sweet, slightly bitter and just gorgeous to behold.

And it’s one of my favorite ways to use up some leftover Prosecco from a morning of mimosas when we didn’t quite finish the bottle. 👌

(If you're looking for other bubbly drinks, check out this elderflower champagne cocktail (great for day drinking!) or this sparkling white sangria that's fruity and perfect for sharing!)

Total afternoon or early evening deliciousness.

Plus, you just need a few ingredients.

What's in an Aperol Spritz?

• Aperol
• Sparkling wine (such as Prosecco, Cava or champagne)
• Club soda
• Orange slice for garnish

Also, in case you’re wondering…

What is Aperol?

- Aperol is an Italian bitter apéritif that’s made of rhubarb and botanicals, among other ingredients. It has a bright orange color and a sweet, slightly bitter taste.

It’s the star of this lovely, light drink that is designed to help whet your appetite. So it’s great to have before a meal, but honestly, it’s perfect for sipping any time of day in my opinion.

OK, let’s get mixing.

Now, I’ve got some notes and tips coming up on how to make Aperol Spritz. Just tryin’ to be helpful.

If you want to jump on down to the recipe, simply scroll right on through the rest of the text. The recipe card is near the bottom of the page, above the comments section.

Notes on making Aperol Spritz:

• Choose a dry (brut) Prosecco, Cava or other sparkling wine. You don’t want one that’s too sweet or it could overpower the drink.
• Feel free to play with the quantities in this drink. You can start with equal amounts of Aperol and sparkling wine and then add a splash of either one to get it to your desired consistency.
• Be sure to serve it immediately. Between losing fizziness and melting ice, this is not a drink to make ahead or let sit out for too long.

Otherwise, this is really simple to make.

Just fill your glass with some ice, add the Aperol, top with the sparkling wine and then the club soda. Stir slightly if needed, garnish with your orange slice and you are all set. 👌

Oh, and if you love slightly sweet, citrusy cocktails, definitely check out this lemon drop martini. It’s elegant and refreshing.

Wishing you a wonderful summer weekend and hopefully a pretty cocktail or two to sip along the way.

Enjoy!

XO,

Kathryn

P.S. Stay tuned because I have one more fun drink recipe coming up for you this month.

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