Perfect for a hot summer day

When you want to put together a quick and elegant appetizer party on a hot summer day, nothing could be easier than this- no cooking required!  And most of your friends will not have heard of Aperol, an Italian aperitif mostly seen in Europe.  (You should be able to find it at a larger liquor store though).  Something about the sunny orange color served over ice makes it the perfect summer starter. And it’s always fun to introduce your friends or family to something new.

According to the website, “Aperol is the perfect aperitif.  Its unique bittersweet taste and bright orange color are derived from a secret and original recipe that has remained unchanged over time.  An infusion of ingredients including oranges, herbs and roots which make a perfectly balanced combination.”  It has 11% alcohol content.  After perusing the website I decided on the “Quintessential Aperitif”.  Aperol combined with Prosecco, how could it go wrong?!?

Ingredients:

• Aperol
• Prosecco
• Club Soda or Soda Water
• Ice
• A slice of Orange for garnish

Directions: Fill a wine glass with ice, combine half prosecco and half Aperol in the glass, and add a dash of soda water.  Garnish with an orange slice.

 

I had some wonderful smoked salmon on hand, and paired it with an english cucumber slice instead of the usual crackers.  It’s not only cooling and refreshing, but was also carb free!  Garnished with a few capers and a whisp of fresh dill, these little savory treats went well with our summer drink.  I rounded it out with breadsticks, but you could also serve olives or bread and olive oil for dipping along side.

Put a little European elegance in your summer, and try an aperitif.

Ciao bella