Easy 3 Ingredient Italian Spritz Recipe & Guide

There is no moment more Italian than the aperitivo – that golden hour before dinner when friends gather, conversations flow and glasses clink in celebration of life’s simple pleasures. At the heart of this cherished ritual is the spritz: light, refreshing and beautifully bittersweet.

Join us as we explore 5 beloved Italian spritz cocktails – complete with recipes – that bring a true taste of Italy to your glass!

 

Different Types Of Italian Spritz

From the iconic Aperol Spritz of Venice to the floral charm of the Hugo, each variation tells a story of place and tradition.

In Italy, the word spritz is more than just a drink – it’s a ritual. Originating in the Veneto region, the spritz began as a simple mix of white wine and soda water. Over time, it evolved into the vibrant, bittersweet cocktails we know today, each one reflecting the character of its region and the spirit of Italian aperitivo culture.

There’s a spritz for every taste: the bright and easygoing Aperol, the bold bitterness of Campari, the refined Select from Venice, the floral Hugo from the north, and the zesty Limoncello of the south. 

 

What is the most popular spritz in Italy?

Without a doubt, the Aperol Spritz reigns supreme – not only in Italy but around the world. Its vibrant orange hue, balanced flavour and refreshing fizz have made it the go-to drink for millions, especially when dining al fresco during the warm summer months.

 

1. Aperol Spritz Recipe

Bright, bittersweet and beloved across Italy. The Aperol Spritz is the go-to aperitivo.

Recipe:

• 3 parts Prosecco
• 2 parts Aperol
• 1 part soda water
• Serve over ice in a large wine glass
• Garnish with an orange slice

 

2. Campari Spritz Recipe

For those who like a stronger, more bitter edge, the Campari Spritz is vibrant and sophisticated.

Recipe:

• 3 parts Prosecco
• 2 parts Campari
• 1 part soda water
• Serve over ice in a wine glass or tumbler
• Garnish with an orange wedge or twist

 

3. Select Spritz Recipe

Hailing from Venice, Select was the original spritz ingredient before Aperol took the spotlight.

 

Recipe:

• 3 parts Prosecco
• 2 parts Select Aperitivo
• 1 part soda water
• Serve over ice in a wine glass
• Garnish with a green olive for a true Venetian touch

 

 

4. Hugo Spritz Recipe

A delicate and refreshing spritz from the South Tyrol region, perfect for summer sipping.

Recipe:

• 3 parts Prosecco
• 2 parts elderflower syrup (or St-Germain)
• 1 part soda water
• Serve over ice in a wine glass
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a lime slice

 

5. Limoncello Spritz Recipe

A southern Italian twist on the spritz, bursting with the zest of lemons from the Amalfi Coast.

Recipe:

• 2 parts Prosecco
• 1.5 parts Limoncello 
• 1 part soda water
• Serve over ice in a wine glass
• Garnish with a lemon wheel and a sprig of basil or mint

 

 

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Italian Spritz

 

What alcohol is in Italian spritz?

An Italian spritz typically contains a combination of Prosecco (a dry sparkling wine), a bitter or herbal liqueur (such as Aperol, Campari, Select or Limoncello), and a splash of soda water. The liqueur gives each spritz its distinctive flavour and colour.

 

What to serve with an Italian spritz?

Spritz is made to be enjoyed with food – it’s the heart of the aperitivo tradition. Light, salty snacks pair best: think olives, crispy focaccia, Italian cured meats, cheese. At San Carlo, we recommend enjoying your spritz with a traditional Italian charcuterie board a selection of classic cicchetti – small Italian plates perfect for sharing.

 

Is Aperol Spritz Italian?

Yes – the Aperol Spritz is 100% Italian. Aperol was created in Padua in 1919 and the now famous spritz recipe became widely popular in northern Italy before gaining international fame. Today, it’s considered a symbol of the Italian aperitivo.

 

How to say Aperol Spritz in Italian?

It’s said just as it looks: “Aperol Spritz” – though Italians often shorten it to just “uno Spritz” when ordering at the bar, especially in the north. For example: “Prendo uno Spritz, grazie.” 

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At San Carlo, we celebrate the art of the aperitivo – so next time you dine with us, raise your glass and toast the Italian way: cin cin!

 

Father’s Day Meal 2025 at San Carlo

Father’s Day 2025 is fast approaching – and what better way to mark the special occasion than with a memorable meal at San Carlo? Treat dad this year to a delicious Father’s Day feast, whether that be an authentic Italian meal or a traditional Sunday roast dinner – and not forgetting dad’s favourite cocktail. Whatever your plans this 15th June, here’s some ways to show your appreciation for the special man in your life – the San Carlo way.

 

A La Carte Feast

For a personalised and indulgent Father’s Day meal, explore San Carlo’s extensive A La Carte menu. With a selection of traditional Italian dishes, from perfectly cooked steak, seafood and handmade pasta, to classic risotto & carpaccio, there’s something for every palate. Whether your dad enjoys rich, hearty flavours or light, delicate dishes, our chefs prepare each plate to perfection, ensuring a dining experience he will cherish.

Where To Find The Best Al Fresco Dining in London 

As the warmer months roll in, there’s nothing quite like dining al fresco – a term borrowed from the Italians that evokes leisurely meals under open skies, surrounded by good company and even better food.

In this blog, we’ll explore the meaning behind this beloved style of dining and take you on a tour of some of the best al fresco dining spots in London. 

From elegant terraces to vibrant outdoor settings, we’ve handpicked 4, must-try San Carlo restaurants near central London that bring a taste of Italy to the heart of the capital – with the added charm of beautiful outdoor seating. 

 

Al fresco meaning: What is al fresco dining?

In Italian, al fresco literally means “in the cool” and is commonly used to describe eating outdoors. With roots in Italian culture, the spirit of the phrase perfectly captures the essence of Italian outdoor living: relaxed, sociable meals enjoyed in the open air, surrounded by good food, wine and warm conversation. It’s a tradition deeply woven into Italian life, where terraces, piazzas and garden tables invite diners to savour the moment as much as the meal.

Now, let’s take a closer look at where in London you can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine al fresco, each offering its own unique outdoor setting in the heart of the city.

 

1. Alto Selfridges Rooftop Restaurant

Perched atop Selfridges on Oxford Street, Alto by San Carlo offers an enchanting rooftop escape that brings a taste of Italy to the heart of London. The stylish Italian restaurant features a beautifully landscaped terrace adorned with trailing vines and lemon trees, creating a serene atmosphere reminiscent of the Amalfi Coast. 

Equipped with a fully retractable roof, guests can enjoy al fresco dining under the sun or stars, regardless of the weather. The restaurant also boasts a separate outdoor bar & seating space, which accommodates open-air drinks as well as dining.

The Alto by San Carlo menu showcases a selection of cicchetti-style plates, perfect for sharing and designed to highlight the finest Italian ingredients.

Whether you’re seeking a leisurely lunch, a celebratory dinner or a pre-shopping aperitivo, the terrace at Alto Selfridges delivers breathtaking city views and an unforgettable outdoor dining experience in London.

Alto by San Carlo, The Rooftop, Selfridges, Oxford St, London, W1A 1AB

Book a table at Alto Selfridges

 

Isola by San Carlo, St Christopher’s Place, London, W1U 1AY

Book a table at Isola

San Carlo Knightsbridge, 6 Hans Road, Knightsbridge, London SW3 1RX

Book a table at San Carlo Knightsbridge

The Best Italian Cheese & Wine Pairings: A Guide to Perfect Matches

We believe life’s finest pleasures are best enjoyed in good company – and few things rival the timeless pairing of wine and cheese. Whether you’re planning a relaxed aperitivo at home or elevating your next dinner party, understanding how to match the right Italian cheese with the perfect wine can transform your experience.

Let us guide you through the art of pairing, with expert tips and classic combinations, straight from the heart of Italy.

6 Tips for Pairing Italian Cheese & Wine

Whether you’re planning a casual aperitivo or a more formal tasting, here are 6 key tips to help you create perfect pairings between Italian cheeses and wines.

1. Match Intensity

Bold, aged cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano or Pecorino Romano pair best with equally robust wines like Barolo or Brunello di Montalcino, while fresh, mild cheeses like mozzarella or ricotta suit lighter wines like Pinot Grigio or Frascati.

 

2. Balance Salt & Sweetness

Salty cheeses, such as Gorgonzola or Grana Padano, can be beautifully balanced by sweeter wines like Vin Santo or a Moscato d’Asti.

 

3. Consider Texture

Creamy cheeses (e.g. Taleggio or Robiola) benefit from wines with good acidity or sparkle, such as Prosecco or Verdicchio, to cut through the richness.

 

4. Regional Pairing

When in doubt, go local. Wines and cheeses from the same Italian region often naturally complement each other – think Tuscan Pecorino with Chianti or Asiago with a glass of Soave from Veneto.

 

5. Be Aroma Aware

Strong, pungent cheeses like Gorgonzola Piccante need wines that can hold their own – opt for structured reds or sweet dessert wines to balance the intensity.

 

6. Freshness Meets Fruitness

Fresh cheeses like Burrata or Stracchino are ideal with crisp, fruity whites or young rosés, which enhance the cheese’s delicate flavour without overwhelming it.

The Best Italian Side Dishes For Pasta Pairing

A beautifully prepared side dish doesn’t just accompany your pasta – it elevates it. In this blog post, we explore the finest Italian contorni and accompaniments that bring balance, flavour, and a touch of elegance to your table, along with the best types of pasta dishes to pair with each.

8 Traditional Italian Side Dishes to Pair With Pasta

From classic insalate to seasonal vegetables and artisan breads, discover the perfect pairings to complement your next pasta course the San Carlo way. 

3. Tenderstem Broccoli

Introducing Our New Summer Menus

Available at selected San Carlo & Cicchetti sites from the end of April, our brand new summer menus will offer a delicious mix of antipasti (starter) and secondi (main) dishes) to savour and indulge all summer long.

To start, the San Carlo summer menu will feature a number of fresh, new, seasonal antipasti offerings; including a squid, prawn, scallops & scampi salad, a chicken caesar salad, as well as a prawn & avocado salad, to name a few.

Main dish highlights include the Tagliolini Crab (tagliolini pasta with crab, tomato, saffron & a touch of cream), the Orzo Risotto Zucca & Salsiccia (orzo risotto with pumpkin cream, fresh sausage & pecorino, finished with truffle oil) & Nodino di Vitello al Tartufo (veal chop with fresh Italian black truffle).

Across our Cicchetti restaurants, pasta highlights on the summer menu include the Rigatoni ‘Nduja & Ricotta (consisting of tube pasta with spicy Calabrian ‘nduja & ricotta salata), and the Mezzelune al Granchio (filled pasta with handpicked crab meat, cherry tomato & chives).

For those who prefer seafood, we have also added some delightful new fish dishes to the summer menu: favourites include the monkfish wrapped in Parma ham, with pesto, fennel, asparagus & pistachio, and an octopus & broad bean salad with a Yuzu dressing.

The new meat dish highlight is the Tagliata di Vitello (sliced veal chop on the bone with Italian dressing).

Featuring on both the San Carlo & Cicchetti summer menus will be the Risotto Gamberi & Asparagus (classic risotto with king prawns, Argentinian prawns & asparagus in a mascarpone cream), and the Trofie Pesto & Stracciatella (trofie pasta with pesto, pine nuts & stracciatella).

Ready to transport to Italy this Summer? Book a table at your nearest San Carlo today and indulge in our new summer menu offerings.

 

How to Make An Italian Charcuterie Board

Whether you’re a “hostess with the mostess” or a novice in entertaining, creating an Italian charcuterie board is a fun and easy way to impress guests. This guide will walk you through everything you need – from selecting classic Italian meats like prosciutto and salami, to picking regional cheeses such as Parmigiano-Reggiano and Gorgonzola, plus tasty extras like olives, marinated artichokes, nuts, fruit, and crusty bread. With every element, we’ll offer flexible options for each element so you can customise your board with authentic Italian flavours and eye-catching variety that your guests are going to love.

 

What to Put on An Italian Cheese Board?

Before we dive into how to build an Italian charcuterie board step-by-step, let’s break down the key elements that make up a well-balanced and delicious spread.

Every board includes a mix of Italian cured meats, a selection of regional cheeses, and flavourful extras that add texture, colour, and contrast – think marinated vegetables, olives, fresh fruit, nuts, and bread or crackers. Each of these elements plays a role in creating variety and keeping your guests coming back for more. 

Next, we’ll explore each of these categories in more detail and offer a few mouthwatering cheese board ideas & variations so you can mix and match to suit your taste.

 

 

FAQs about Italian Charcuterie Boards

 

6 Traditional Italian Easter Foods You Need to Try

Easter in Italy, or Pasqua, is a time to gather with loved ones, enjoy festive meals, and celebrate the season of renewal. It’s customary to greet others with Buona Pasqua – how you say “Happy Easter” in Italian. During this celebratory time, food plays a central role, with a mix of savoury and sweet dishes served throughout the day.

Before diving into our countdown of the most popular Italian Easter foods, it’s important to note that traditional Italian Easter meals are typically divided into six distinct courses:

1. Antipasti (appetizers)
2. Prima (first course)
3. Secondi (second course)
4. Contorni (side dishes)
5. Dolci (desserts)
6. Digestivo (to end the meal)

Now, let’s explore the delicious foods that bring Italian Easter celebrations to life!

 

6 Traditional Italian Easter Foods for a Holiday Feast

To help you experience the true flavours of an Italian Easter, we’ve compiled a list of the most popular traditional foods, based on insights from expert Italian chefs. From savoury to sweet, these dishes are beloved across Italy and capture the essence of this special holiday.

 

Led by our Head of Wine, Dario Barbato, members of the San Carlo team recently made the trip to the beautiful Piedmont region in northwest Italy, to expand their wine knowledge and finalise the new blend of our house wines: Remigio Bianco and Remigio Rosso.

As a region renowned for its wine production, Piedmont is especially famous for its exceptional red wines, particularly Barolo and Barbaresco, along with delightful white wines like Gavi. 

Over the course of the trip, the team had the opportunity to visit several key vineyards and wine producers within the Piedmont landscape. This included Pico Maccario, where they learned about the production of Barbera d’Asti, a red wine made from the Barbera grape.

The team spent time in the picturesque area of Langhe, where they gained a deeper understanding of the meticulous care and dedication that goes into producing every glass of wine in this celebrated region.

Here, they were exposed to various winemaking techniques – one known as “pumping over” – a process which involves pumping juice upwards from the bottom of the tank and splashing it over the cap, enhancing its color and aroma. This particular technique plays a crucial role in developing the wine’s depth and complexity, and is an integral part of the overall winemaking process.

No visit to Piedmont would be complete without indulging in its rich culinary heritage. During their stay, the team savoured traditional Piedmontese dishes, including succulent Fassona beef, a popular delicacy that originates from the Piedmont area. 

With plans to finalise our house wines in the coming weeks, the new blends will feature a lower alcohol content and place more emphasis on the aromatic profile;

“This shift aligns with current market and consumer trends that favour lighter, more aromatic wines, making them more versatile for pairing with a wide range of dishes”, Dario explained. 

Overall, the trip to Piedmont was an invaluable experience that will not only enhance San Carlo’s future wine offerings, but has also strengthened the team’s knowledge and enthusiasm for the craft of winemaking. 

We are excited to share these insights and our newly crafted wines with our guests in the months to come!