Campari and Soda Cocktail Recipe

The Campari and Soda cocktail has its origins in Italy, where it was first created in the 1860s by Gaspare Campari. It quickly became a popular aperitif, especially in Milan, and is now enjoyed by people all around the world. The cocktail is known for its bitter taste and vibrant red color, making it a favorite among those who appreciate bold flavors.

• The Campari and Soda is often associated with Italian culture and is a staple in many Italian bars and restaurants.
• The cocktail is typically served as an aperitif, meant to stimulate the appetite before a meal.
• The drink has a long history and has been enjoyed by many famous figures, including Ernest Hemingway and Orson Welles.

The Campari and Soda cocktail is known for its bitter, herbal taste with a hint of sweetness. It is a refreshing and effervescent drink, with a slightly tart and citrusy undertone.

• Campari, the main ingredient in the cocktail, is made from a secret blend of herbs, fruits, and spices, and its exact recipe is known only to a select few.
• The vibrant red color of Campari comes from the cochineal insect, which is used as a natural dye.
• The Campari and Soda is sometimes referred to as an 'Americano' due to its popularity among American tourists in Italy during the early 20th century.

1. Fill a glass with ice
2. Pour 2oz of Campari over the ice
3. Top with 4oz of club soda
4. Stir gently to mix
5. Garnish with an orange or lemon peel, expressing the oils over the drink and placing it in the glass

• Use fresh ice: Fresh ice can make a big difference in the quality of your cocktail. It helps to chill the drink without diluting it too much.
• Express the citrus peel: When garnishing with a citrus peel, be sure to 'express' it by twisting it over the drink. This releases the oils and adds an extra layer of flavor.
• Stir gently: Stirring the drink gently helps to mix the ingredients without making the drink too fizzy.

Appetizers

• Olives: The bitterness of Campari is nicely complemented by the briny taste of olives.
• Salted Nuts: Especially almonds and cashews, because their saltiness and crunchiness make a lovely contrast with the Campari's bitterness.
• Prosciutto: The saltiness of cured meats like prosciutto pairs well with the bubbly and slight bitter nature of the cocktail.

Main Courses

• Grilled Seafood: Lightly grilled seafood dishes can be enhanced by the effervescence of the soda.
• Pizza Margherita: A classic Italian pairing, the herbal notes in Campari can stand up to the acidic tomato and rich cheese.

Desserts

• Dark Chocolate: A piece of dark chocolate can offset the bitterness of Campari and create a rich balance.

• Aperol: If you find Campari too bitter, you can substitute it with Aperol, which is sweeter and has a lower alcohol content.
• Grapefruit Peel: Instead of an orange or lemon peel, you can use a grapefruit peel for a different flavor profile.
• Tonic Water: If you don't have club soda, you can use tonic water. However, this will make the drink a bit sweeter.

Campari Spritz

Substitute the club soda with Prosecco for a bubblier and slightly sweeter experience. Retain the Campari amount, and add a splash of soda water if needed. The result is an Italian love affair in a glass, vivacious and lively, perfect for those summer flings.

Smoky Campari and Soda

Introduce a smoky element by adding 1/2oz of mezcal to the mix before adding the club soda. Stir gently, and you have a drink that dances between bitter, smoky and refreshing – tailor-made for mysterious nights.

Herbal Campari and Soda

Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme to the glass before adding ice. The herbs will infuse an aromatic quality that marries the Campari's botanicals, creating a garden in your glass. This twist is for when you want to impress with minimal effort.