Cool off with the Nordic Summer cocktail recipe! Mix Aquavit, Aperol, and lime juice for a refreshing summer drink.
Prep time:
1 minute
Mixing time:
1 minute
Servings:
1
Calories:
145
Ingredients
- 1 oz Aquavit
- 1 oz Aperol
- 1 oz lime juice
- Ice cubes
- Orange twist - for garnish, optional
Equipment
- Coupe Glass
- Shaker
- Strainer & Fine-strainer
- Measuring Jigger
Instructions
- Prep Glass: Fill your coupe glass with ice cubes.
- Add Lime Juice: Add 1 oz lime juice to the shaker.
- Add Aperol: Measure and pour 11 oz Aperol into the shaker.
- Add Aquavit: Add 1 oz Aquavit to the mix.
- Add Ice: Fill your shaker with ice cubes.
- Shake: Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
- Strain: Fine strain your mixture into the chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish: Garnish with an orange zest.
Notes
Substitutes:
- Aquavit: If you don't have Aquavit, try using gin for a different but still delightful flavor. I've also used vodka in a pinch; it makes the drink smoother and less herbal.
- Aperol: Campari can replace Aperol if you prefer a more bitter edge. For a sweeter option, try using an orange liqueur like Cointreau.
- Lime Juice: Fresh lemon juice works well if you're out of limes. It gives a slightly different citrus note but is equally refreshing.
Making a Pitcher of Nordic Summer:
- Scale: To make a pitcher that serves 8, multiply all the ingredients by 8. That would be 8 oz of Aquavit, 8 oz of Aperol, and 8 oz of lime juice.
- Mix: In a large pitcher, combine the Aquavit, Aperol, and lime juice with ice. Stir well.
- Serve: Strain the mixture into chilled coupe glasses, garnish with an orange twist, and serve immediately.
Making it Non-Alcoholic:
- Aquavit Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic spirit substitute; these are available and do a reasonable job mimicking Aquavit's botanicals.
- Aperol Substitute: Opt for a non-alcoholic aperitif or make a simple syrup infused with orange peel and a touch of bitterness from some gentian roots.
- Proceed As Usual: Use these non-alcoholic substitutes instead of the regular ingredients, follow the original steps, and enjoy a non-alcoholic version.
What is a Nordic Summer?
A Nordic Summer is an Aquavit-based cocktail made of Aquavit, Aperol, and lime juice. It’s not difficult to make because it requires only a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps. This refreshing drink combines herbal notes from the Aquavit with citrusy flavors, making it perfect for warm-weather enjoyment.
What is a Nordic Summer made of – The ingredients
Gather these ingredients to prepare a Nordic Summer:
- Aquavit: Adds a herbal and slightly spicy base, giving the cocktail its distinctive Nordic character.
- Aperol: Contributes a bittersweet orange flavor, balancing the herbal notes of the Aquavit.
- Lime Juice: Provides a refreshing citrusy tang, enhancing the overall brightness of the drink.
- Ice Cubes: Cools the cocktail, making it refreshing and enjoyable.
- Orange Twist (optional): Garnishes the drink, adding visual appeal and an extra hint of citrus aroma.
