Summer Strawberry Spritz: The Ultimate Refreshing Drink for Strawberry Season
If you’re searching for the perfect summer cocktail that captures the carefree spirit of summer, look no further than the Summer Strawberry Spritz. Bursting with strawberry flavor and bubbly charm, this strawberry cocktail is light, fruity, and endlessly refreshing. Whether you’re lounging in the sun, hosting a backyard barbecue, or prepping for your next charcuterie board moment, this fizzy favorite is guaranteed to be a popular choice. It’s easy to whip up in a large pitcheror mason jar, making it a go-to for entertaining and relaxing alike.
Why You’ll Love Summer Strawberry Spritz
This drink is a refreshing treat for hot days and balmy nights. Think sweet strawberries, zesty citrus, and a fizzy pop—perfectly chilled in a wine glass over ice cubes. With a low ABV, it’s great for daytime sipping, yet festive enough for evening fun. Plus, it’s a great strawberry aperol spritz alternative for those looking for a fruity twist on a classic aperol spritz. It’s made with fresh fruits, takes minimal prep, and has tons of strawberry cocktail variations.
Ingredients
Fresh Strawberries
These are the star of the show. Slice a few and muddle the rest for natural sweetness and that bold strawberry flavor.
Strawberry Seltzer Water, Poppi, or Olipop Soda
A fizzy drink base with subtle strawberry syrup notes. Choose your favorite bubbly brand for added probiotics and flavor.
Lemon Juice
Adds brightness and cuts the sweetness. You can also use lime juice or combine both for extra zing.
Lemon Slices
A simple but beautiful garnish that adds citrusy aroma and flair to your glass.
Stevia or Simple Syrup (to taste)
For those who like it sweet, add stevia for a sugar-free option or simple syrup for a richer finish.
Mint (Optional)
A sprig of mint or other fresh herbs adds a refreshing herbal twist. Try basil or thyme for a fun variation.
Ice Cubes
Essential for keeping this perfect drink nice and cold.
Favorite White Wine (optional)
Add a splash of Sauvignon Blanc or another dry white to turn this into a delicious cocktail.
Tonic Water, Club Soda, or Ginger Ale (optional)
Customize your fizz factor. Tonic water adds bite, club soda is neutral, and ginger ale gives a spicy kick.
How to Make Summer Strawberry Spritz
- Muddle a handful of fresh strawberries in the bottom of a large pitcher or cocktail shaker with lemon juice and simple syrup or stevia.
- Add ice cubes and lemon slices.
- Pour in strawberry soda (Poppi or Olipop), and if using, a splash of white wine, tonic water, or club soda.
- Stir gently with a bar spoon.
- Serve in chilled wine glasses and garnish with a sprig of mint and strawberry slices.
- Sip and enjoy under the summer sunshine.
Tips and Tricks
- Use ripe strawberries – The sweetness of the strawberries is key. Look for deep red, fragrant berries.
- Make it ahead – Store the strawberry puree in an airtight container or ziplock bag in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Keep it cold – Chill all your ingredients ahead of time to reduce dilution from melting ice.
Variations
This drink is easily customizable for different palates and dietary needs.
- Alcohol-Free Option – Skip the wine and just use strawberry seltzer water for a refreshing cocktail sans booze.
- Strawberry Limoncello Spritz – Add a splash of limoncello for a zingy Italian twist.
- St. Germain Version – A little St. Germain adds floral sweetness that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
Substitutions
- Lime juice instead of lemon juice – For a tangier profile.
- Simple syrup instead of stevia – If you want a more classic cocktail vibe.
- Seltzer or soda water instead of flavored soda – For a lighter, more subtle spritz.
Best Served With
- A fresh charcuterie board
- Summer salads with fruit and lemon vinaigrette
- Grilled steak and chicken skewers
- A fruit tart or lemon bars
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container or mason jar in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you’ve made a big batch with fresh herbs, strain them out before storing. The strawberry puree can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and re-mix before serving.
Common Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the strawberry puree, lemon juice, and sweetener mix the next day in advance. Just add soda and ice right before serving.
Can I make this without alcohol?
Yes! This strawberry spritz cocktail is just as good without wine or liqueur. Use ginger ale, seltzer, or club soda for a fun mocktail.
Whether you’re sipping it solo on a hot day or sharing it with friends, the Summer Strawberry Spritz is the perfect cocktail to toast to the summer season. Light, fruity, and full of flavor—it’s one of the best strawberry recipes to enjoy all year long. Be sure to save the full recipe on your recipe card or check out the affiliate links below for our favorite ingredients and tools!
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Summer Strawberry Spritz: The Ultimate Refreshing Drink for Strawberry Season
Ingredients
Fresh Strawberries
- These are the star of the show. Slice a few and muddle the rest for natural sweetness and that bold strawberry flavor.
Strawberry Seltzer Water, Poppi, or Olipop Soda
- A fizzy drink base with subtle strawberry syrup notes. Choose your favorite bubbly brand for added probiotics and flavor.
Lemon Juice
- Adds brightness and cuts the sweetness. You can also use lime juice or combine both for extra zing.
Lemon Slices
- A simple but beautiful garnish that adds citrusy aroma and flair to your glass.
Stevia or Simple Syrup (to taste)
- For those who like it sweet add stevia for a sugar-free option or simple syrup for a richer finish.
Mint (Optional)
- A sprig of mint or other fresh herbs adds a refreshing herbal twist. Try basil or thyme for a fun variation.
Ice Cubes
- Essential for keeping this perfect drink nice and cold.
Favorite White Wine (optional)
- Add a splash of Sauvignon Blanc or another dry white to turn this into a delicious cocktail.
Tonic Water, Club Soda, or Ginger Ale (optional)
- Customize your fizz factor. Tonic water adds bite club soda is neutral, and ginger ale gives a spicy kick.
Instructions
- Muddle a handful of fresh strawberries in the bottom of a large pitcher or cocktail shaker with lemon juice and simple syrup or stevia.
- Add ice cubes and lemon slices.
- Pour in strawberry soda (Poppi or Olipop), and if using, a splash of white wine, tonic water, or club soda.
- Stir gently with a bar spoon.
- Serve in chilled wine glasses and garnish with a sprig of mint and strawberry slices.
- Sip and enjoy under the summer sunshine.
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