January 10, 2019

Rosemary-Grapefruit Vodka Spritzer

I can’t be the only one out there with a weakness for cocktails made with fresh herbs and seasonal fruit. Am I right, or am I right? Clearly, I’m right, so it feels like the perfect time to share this rosemary-grapefruit vodka spritzer now that those ruby citrus jewels are in season.

Along with its citrusy, savory kick, this rosemary-grapefruit vodka spritzer isn’t too bad for your waist line. Here at Burrata and Bubbles, I don’t like to worry about calories. I focus on company-worthy recipes. That might mean a little extra butter here, or a big heap of cheese there — more of your weekend indulgences if you will. But this time of year is different.

Now that the holidays are gone — tear — everyone is ready for clean eating. And I get it. I certainly indulge over the holidays each year and look forward to getting back on track. You can only eat so many cookies and put back so many beers and glasses of wine before you start feeling fluffy.

That said, sometimes you just need a cocktail even when you’re trying to reign in those indulgences. You work too hard during the week to not allow yourself a Friday treat, and this rosemary-grapefruit vodka spritzer is perfect for the occasion. For this cocktail, I skipped the simple syrup and let the rosemary and grapefruit shine for a delicious, fresh-tasting vodka spritzer that’s also low in calories.

With 2 ounces of vodka, this drink comes in at 194 calories, or you can cut that to 1 1/2 ounces of vodka for about 150 calories. Obviously, this still isn’t the most healthful drink. I mean, it’s still a cocktail, but it’s not bad for a weekend treat. At least grapefruit juice is full of antioxidants. Just go with me on this.

Normally, I love a touch of simple syrup in my cocktails, but I thought, hey, it’s the new year. Why don’t you change it up and see how it goes? I can be a creature of habit, so skipping that beloved cocktail ingredient wasn’t easy. You know what, though? I still loved the cocktail and didn’t miss the simple syrup.

How to Make Rosemary-Grapefruit Vodka Spritzer

Now that you’re sold on this light and tasty rosemary-grapefruit vodka spritzer, let’s chat about how ridiculously easy it is to make this cocktail.

We start by muddling fresh rosemary with grapefruit juice, vodka and lime juice in a cocktail shaker. I like using a muddler, and if you don’t have one, I included a link below. You could also use the flat end of a large spoon or kitchen utensil, but a muddler is easier to grip. Plus, using a muddler makes you like a pro if you’re making this spritzer in front of friends, and a muddler is plenty affordable. To me, it’s worth the small investment, especially if you love your cocktails.

Now we add a handful of ice, pop on the top and shake for a good 15 seconds. From here, we strain into an ice-filled glass and top with a grapefruit-flavored sparkling water. I used La Croix Pamplemousse, but there are lots of other tasty grapefruit-flavored sparkling waters out there. You could also top with club soda or another type of sparkling water, but I enjoy the extra grapefruit punch.

With our cocktail ready, we garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig and sip the night away with your favorite people for good measure.

Perfect Pairing for Rosemary-Grapefruit Vodka Spritzer

This light, citrusy cocktail calls for a plate of seared scallops. Obviously, seafood is a natural pairing for citrus-forward beverages, and scallops are delicious with grapefruit. Considering the delicate nature of scallops, I love how this cocktail is light enough that it doesn’t overwhelm the scallops, and the spirtzy quality offers a nice balance to the scallops’ buttery texture.

Whether you’re looking for a light cocktail or simply craving something citrusy, bubbly and delicious, I hope you try this rosemary-grapefruit vodka spritzer. Please let me know how you enjoyed this rosemary-grapefruit vodka spritzer recipe in the comment section and don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter. You can also catch me on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook and Twitter.

Cheers!

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