Campari Orange Spritzer: An Ina Garten Classic

The first time I tasted a Campari Orange Spritzer, it was a sweltering summer afternoon in Tuscany. I was visiting a small vineyard, and the vintner’s wife, a vision in linen, presented me with a glass brimming with ice, the vibrant red Campari swirling with orange juice and sparkling water. The bitter-sweetness, the effervescence, the burst of citrus – it was the perfect antidote to the heat and the perfect accompaniment to the stunning scenery. It’s a taste I’ve been chasing ever since, and Ina Garten’s version comes remarkably close to capturing that Italian summer in a glass.

Recipe Overview:

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Servings: 1
• Yield: 1 drink
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients:

• 6 ice cubes
• 1/4 cup Campari
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 1/2 cups sparkling water (recommended: San Pellegrino)
• Orange slice, halved
• Ginger ale, optional

Equipment Needed:

• Highball glass

Instructions:

1. Begin by filling a highball glass completely with ice cubes. This keeps the drink perfectly chilled.

2. Pour 1/4 cup of Campari over the ice. The vibrant red color will immediately start to swirl and mingle with the ice, creating a visually appealing base for your spritzer.

3. Add 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice. Opt for juice that’s been strained to remove any pulp; this will give the spritzer a smoother, more refined texture. The fresh orange juice balances the bitterness of the Campari with its natural sweetness and bright citrus flavor.

4. Top with 1 1/2 cups of sparkling water (San Pellegrino is highly recommended). The bubbles from the sparkling water not only add a refreshing effervescence, but also help to dilute the flavors, creating a lighter, more drinkable cocktail.

5. Garnish with a half orange slice. This adds a touch of visual appeal and a final burst of citrus aroma.

6. Serve immediately and enjoy your ice-cold Campari Orange Spritzer.

Note: Campari has a distinct and bitter taste. If you prefer a sweeter drink, substitute ginger ale for the San Pellegrino water to adjust the level of sweetness to your liking.

Expert Tips & Tricks:

• Chill Your Ingredients: For the coldest and most refreshing spritzer, chill the Campari, orange juice, and San Pellegrino in advance. This ensures the ice won’t melt as quickly and dilute your drink.
• Use Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: Bottled orange juice simply cannot compare to the bright, vibrant flavor of freshly squeezed. The difference is significant and well worth the extra effort.
• Adjust the Ratio: Feel free to adjust the ratio of Campari to orange juice to suit your personal taste. If you prefer a less bitter drink, use a bit more orange juice and a little less Campari.
• Add a Splash of Something Extra: Consider adding a splash of other liqueurs such as Aperol or even vodka for a subtle change to the flavor.
• Make it a Batch: Planning a party? Scale up the recipe to make a batch of Campari Orange Spritzers. Combine the Campari and orange juice in a pitcher and refrigerate until ready to serve. Just before serving, add the San Pellegrino and ice.

Serving & Storage Suggestions:

Serve the Campari Orange Spritzer immediately after preparing it to ensure it remains ice-cold and bubbly. The drink is best enjoyed fresh, as the ice will eventually melt and dilute the flavors.

If you must prepare elements in advance, you can pre-squeeze the orange juice and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Do not mix the Campari, orange juice, and sparkling water ahead of time, as the sparkling water will lose its fizz.

This drink is not suitable for long-term storage. It’s best to make only what you can consume immediately.

Nutritional Information:

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	130 kcal	7%
Total Fat	0g	0%
Saturated Fat	0g	0%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	15g	5%
Dietary Fiber	0g	0%
Sugars	14g	–
Protein	0g	0%

Variations & Substitutions:

• Aperol Spritzer: Substitute Aperol for Campari for a slightly less bitter, more citrusy spritzer.
• Grapefruit Spritzer: Replace orange juice with freshly squeezed grapefruit juice for a tart and refreshing twist.
• Lemon-Lime Spritzer: Use a combination of lemon juice and lime juice instead of orange juice for a zesty and tangy variation.
• Herbal Infusion: Add a sprig of rosemary or mint to the glass for an herbaceous and aromatic touch. Gently muddle the herbs to release their flavor before adding the other ingredients.
• Non-Alcoholic Spritzer: Replace the Campari with a non-alcoholic bitter orange aperitif for a family-friendly version.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I use store-bought orange juice?
A: While you can, the taste will be significantly better with freshly squeezed orange juice. Bottled juices often lack the vibrant flavor and freshness of freshly squeezed.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: It’s best to prepare the Campari Orange Spritzer just before serving to ensure it stays bubbly and refreshing. You can, however, pre-squeeze the orange juice and chill the ingredients ahead of time.

Q: I find Campari too bitter. What can I do?
A: Try substituting ginger ale for the sparkling water to add sweetness. You can also adjust the ratio of orange juice to Campari, using more orange juice to mellow out the bitterness.

Q: Can I use a different type of sparkling water?
A: While San Pellegrino is recommended for its fine bubbles and crisp taste, you can use any type of sparkling water you prefer. Just be sure it’s well-chilled.

Q: Can I add other fruits to this drink?
A: Absolutely! Slices of grapefruit, lemon, or lime make wonderful additions. You could even add a few fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.

Final Thoughts:

Ina Garten’s Campari Orange Spritzer is a delightful and simple cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion. Its bright, refreshing flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, and its ease of preparation makes it ideal for both casual gatherings and more formal affairs. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and substitutions to find your perfect spritzer. This vibrant drink is sure to transport you to sun-drenched Italian terraces with every sip. Now, go ahead, mix one up and share the joy!