Description
A refreshing and zesty Greek-inspired cocktail combining the anise-flavored spirit ouzo with bright lemon juice, sweet honey, and sparkling lemonade for a fizzy, aromatic drink perfect for warm weather or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Liquids
- 2 oz ouzo
- 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz honey (or simple syrup or equivalent sweetener)
- 3 oz sparkling lemonade (or Sprite or soda water)
Herbs & Garnish
- 3 spearmint leaves (or mint or thyme)
- Lemon wheel for garnish
- Spearmint leaves for garnish
Others
- 5 large ice cubes
Instructions
- Prepare the mint: Tear the spearmint leaves with your hands to release their aroma and transfer them into a jar or cocktail shaker.
- Mix the base: Add the ouzo, fresh lemon juice, and honey to the jar or shaker with the mint leaves.
- Shake to combine: Close the jar or shaker with a lid and shake well until the honey is fully dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.
- Prepare the glass: Fill a tall glass with 5-6 large ice cubes to chill the drink properly.
- Pour the mixture: Strain the ouzo mixture over the ice cubes in the glass, leaving room for the sparkling element.
- Top with fizz: Add sparkling lemonade, soda water, or Sprite on top to create a fizzy, refreshing finish.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish the drink with a lemon slice and a sprig of spearmint to enhance the presentation and aroma.
Notes
- Use sparkling lemonade for a sweeter, citrusy fizz; soda water for a lighter, more neutral effervescence; or Sprite for added lemon-lime sweetness.
- If honey is too thick or unmixable, warm it slightly or substitute with simple syrup.
- Experiment with thyme instead of mint for a different herbal note.
- Adjust sweetness to taste based on your preference or dietary needs.
- This cocktail is best served immediately to enjoy the fresh fizz and mint aroma.
