1. Introduction: Why This Drink Is a Winner
Say hello to your next favorite cocktail – the Basil Limoncello Spritz. This drink is zesty, slightly sweet, beautifully bubbly, and gives off those breezy vacation-in-Italy vibes. It’s a playful twist on the classic Italian spritz, with the bold flavor of limoncello (a lemon liqueur) balanced out by fragrant basil and sparkling prosecco.
Perfect for a warm afternoon, brunch with friends, or any moment that calls for a little celebration, this spritz is easy to make and even easier to love.
2. Ingredients: Your Simple Shopping List
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up 2 refreshing servings:
🍹 Ingredients:
- 3 oz (90 ml) Limoncello – Go for a quality brand like Luxardo or Pallini for a smooth, authentic flavor.
- 6 oz (180 ml) Prosecco – Dry or extra-dry works best (e.g. La Marca, Mionetto).
- 2 oz (60 ml) Soda Water – Unflavored sparkling water or club soda.
- Fresh Basil Leaves – About 4–6 large leaves (plus extra for garnish).
- ½ Lemon, sliced – Thin lemon wheels or wedges for garnish.
- Ice Cubes
đź›’ Optional but recommended:
- Basil simple syrup (optional) – For extra herbal sweetness (1 tbsp if using).
- Cocktail shaker (optional) – For muddling the basil if you want a more aromatic finish.
3. Preparation Steps: Getting Ready Barney Style
Alright, let’s break it down step by step, easy-peasy:
Step 1: Chill Everything
Pop the prosecco, limoncello, and soda water in the fridge at least 1–2 hours ahead. A cold drink is a happy drink.
Step 2: Prep the Garnishes
Wash and pat dry your basil leaves. Slice the lemon into thin wheels or wedges. Set aside a few basil sprigs for a gorgeous garnish.
Step 3: Muddle the Basil (Optional but Adds Flavor)
In a cocktail shaker or small bowl, gently press 4–6 basil leaves with a muddler or back of a spoon. You’re not crushing them, just coaxing out those fresh, fragrant oils.
4. Putting It All Together (No Cooking Needed!)
Now for the fun part – building the drink:
Step-by-Step Cocktail Assembly:
- Fill two wine glasses with ice.
- Add the muddled basil to each glass (or skip this step if you like your drink cleaner-looking).
- Pour 1.5 oz (45 ml) limoncello into each glass.
- Top with 3 oz (90 ml) prosecco each.
- Add 1 oz (30 ml) soda water on top to bring in that fizz.
- Give it a gentle stir to combine – don’t shake or stir too vigorously or you’ll lose the bubbles.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel and a sprig of fresh basil.
🍸 Optional: Add a splash of basil simple syrup if you want a sweeter, herb-forward flavor.
5. Serving Suggestions: Elevate the Experience
Best Served:
- In a large stemmed wine glass or spritz glass
- With a colorful paper straw or a reusable cocktail pick
- Over plenty of ice, especially on a hot day
What to Serve With It:
- A small cheese board (goat cheese, brie, crackers, olives)
- Prosciutto-wrapped melon
- Grilled crostini with tomatoes or ricotta
6. Additional Tips & Flavor Twists
🌿 Flavor Boosters:
- Add a splash of grapefruit juice for a citrus twist.
- Use mint instead of basil for a mojito-style variation.
🍹 Diet-Friendly Tweaks:
- Low-Sugar Version: Use a sugar-free limoncello or reduce the amount slightly.
- Mocktail Version: Swap limoncello for lemon juice + a touch of honey or agave, and use a non-alcoholic sparkling wine.
⚡ Make It a Pitcher Drink: Hosting a group? Multiply the ingredients by 4–6 and mix in a pitcher. Add soda just before serving to preserve the fizz.
7. Wrap-Up: Final Thoughts on This Sunshine-in-a-Glass
The Basil Limoncello Spritz is proof that great things happen when fresh herbs meet citrus and sparkle. It’s a light, easy-to-make drink that feels fancy without the fuss. Whether you’re poolside, on your patio, or just need a little vacation in a glass, this spritz delivers.
🍋 Fun Fact:
Limoncello comes from the Amalfi Coast in Italy and is traditionally served chilled after dinner as a digestif. But in this drink, it becomes the life of the party!
8. Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~170 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~15g |
| Sugars | ~12g |
| Alcohol | ~12–14% ABV |
| Fat | 0g |
| Protein | 0g |
| Fiber | <1g |
| Sodium | ~15 mg |
Note: Values may vary based on the brand of limoncello and prosecco used.
9. FAQs: Quick Answers Before You Sip
Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but leave out the soda water and ice until just before serving to keep it fizzy and fresh.
Q2: What if I don’t have limoncello?
You can mix lemon juice with vodka and simple syrup as a backup – not quite the same, but still tasty!
Q3: What’s the best basil to use?
Go for fresh sweet basil (the common Italian type). Avoid Thai basil for this – its flavor is too peppery.
Q4: Can I batch this for a party?
Absolutely. Just multiply the recipe, mix the limoncello and prosecco in a pitcher, and top each glass with soda water when serving.
Q5: What other herbs pair well if I don’t like basil?
Try mint, rosemary, or even lavender for a unique twist.
🍹 Cheers to a Delicious Sip!
Now that you’ve got everything you need to create this refreshing Basil Limoncello Spritz, all that’s left is to pour, garnish, and enjoy. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just soaking in the sunshine, this drink is a total mood.
