Blood Orange Olive Aperitivo

A teaspoon of olive brine changes this spritz from simply citrusy to lightly savory. Blood orange rounds out a bitter aperitif alternative, and sparkling water keeps the texture light. The brine should be a background seasoning, not a strong pickle flavor, so measure it rather than splashing it in. Use a clean spoon from a properly stored olive jar. This is a dinner-hour drink with a bitter, salty edge, especially good if sweet mocktails rarely appeal to you.

Ingredients

• 2 oz 0.0% non-alcoholic aperitif
• 4 oz Sparkling water
• 2 oz Blood orange juice
• 1 tsp Green olive brine

Make it

1. Prepare the fruit and herbs as listed. Lightly press soft fruit and herbs in a glass without shredding the leaves.
2. Add the non-alcoholic alternative and any still juices or flavorings. Stir together and strain if you prefer a smoother texture.
3. Add ice if desired, then pour in the chilled carbonated mixer. Stir gently once and serve.

Benefits

Blood orange · a little vitamin C

Blood orange contributes a little vitamin C for collagen formation for healthy skin; 0.0% aperitif brings a bittersweet aperitif flavor in this recipe.

Olive brine with a little lift

The olive brine brings a salty, savory accent, alongside 0.0% aperitif and blood orange; the chilled carbonated mixer adds a crisp texture to that pairing.

Choose clearly labeled 0.0% products if avoiding trace alcohol. Non-alcoholic alternatives vary; check every label.