Italian Aperitivo Recipes- 3 Most Popular Drinks to know

Italian Aperitivo Recipes – Exploring the 3 most popular drinks to make or to order

Affiliate Disclosure: This post may contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. All opinions are entirely my own.

Introduction to Italian Aperitivo Culture

The art of the aperitivo in Italy is a cherished tradition. Not unlike a North American happy hour, it’s a time to unwind, socialize, and tantalize the taste buds before dinner.  A drink is an aperitif but in Italy the experience of sitting down, unwinding and savouring is the Italian aperitivo culture.

One of the key reasons behind the aperitivo in Italian tradition is its role in preparing the digestive system for the meal to come. Aperitivo drinks, often featuring bitter or herbal flavors to stimulate the appetite and help to kickstart the digestive process. Ingredients such as gentian, cinchona, and wormwood, commonly found in aperitivo liqueurs like Campari and Aperol, are believed to have digestive properties that aid in the breakdown of food. Additionally, the practice of enjoying small bites alongside aperitivo drinks further primes the palate and readies the body for the meal ahead. By opening the digestive system and awakening the taste buds, the aperitif sets the stage for a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience.

For inspiration, here are the three most popular Italian Aperitivo Recipes

At an Italian aperitivo, three of the most popular drinks are the Aperol Spritz, Negroni, and Campari Spritz. Here’s how to make each of them:

Aperol Spritz – The Current Darling of Italian Aperitivo Recipes

• 2 oz Aperol
• 3 oz Prosecco
• Splash of soda water
• Orange slice, for garnish

1. Fill a wine glass with several ice cubes.
2. Pour in the Aperol, followed by the Prosecco.
3. Add a splash of soda water.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with an orange slice.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy

Negroni – The Classic Amongst Italian Aperitivo Recipes

• 1 oz gin
• 1 oz Campari
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• Orange twist, for garnish

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes. (avoid crushed ice to minimize melting)
2. Add the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
3. Stir well until chilled, about 30 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with an orange twist.
6. Serve and savor the classic flavors of the Negroni!

Campari Spritz – The Unexpected Italian Aperitivo Star

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz Campari
• 3 oz Prosecco
• Splash of soda water
• Orange slice, for garnish

1. Fill a wine glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the Campari, followed by the Prosecco.
3. Add a splash of soda water.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with an orange slice.
6. Serve and enjoy the refreshing bitterness of the Campari Spritz!

These iconic Italian aperitivo recipes are simple to make yet bursting with flavor, making them perfect for sipping and socializing before dinner.

Aperitivo culture in Italy is more than just a drink—it’s a lifestyle, a ritual, and a celebration of the simple pleasures of life. Whether you find yourself in Italy or North America, take the time to embrace this cherished tradition and savor the flavors, sights, and sounds of the aperitivo hour.

Aperitivo Tours

if you are fortunate enough to be heading to Italy be sure to seek out an exclusive Aperitivo tour. I have listed a few of them here.

Rome Aperitivo Tour

Venice Aperitivo Tour

Florence Aperitivo Tour

Milan Aperitivo Tour

So raise a glass, raise your spirits, and raise a toast to the joy of the aperitivo culture. Saluti!

For more suggestions on snack pairing see my complete guide on the Italian Aperitivo here.