If you find yourself weary of the usual American summer dishes like grilled burgers and strawberry shortcake and are yearning for an Italian escape to Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast, why not bring a slice of Italy to your own backyard? Picture yourself indulging in a fresh Grilled Eggplant Tarte made with homegrown tomatoes or a delicious Blueberry Peach Focaccia. To elevate your Italian-inspired meal, try sipping on a Bicicletta, the latest summer spritz that’s perfect for warm weather.
The Bicicletta is a more sophisticated alternative to the classic Aperol Spritz, boasting a slightly more bitter and less sweet profile. Unlike the Aperol Spritz, which uses sparkling wine for its bubbles, the Bicicletta gets its effervescence from club soda. Choose a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir to complement the Campari’s fruity notes. This simple, three-ingredient cocktail is easy to prepare and perfect for leisurely sipping throughout the evening, whether you’re enjoying appetizers or dessert.
Juli Hale, senior brand manager at Better Homes & Gardens Test Kitchen, notes that the magic of summer drinks like the Bicicletta lies in their combination of fizz and bitterness. “What makes this drink, and any summer drink, especially good in the summer is some fizz and a touch of bitterness,” Hale explains. “Think of why a cold beer is just what you want on a hot day—it’s the same thing: fizz and bitterness. The bitterness is really refreshing, and the carbonation actually helps your body cool down. What’s more American than a cold beer, right? And what’s more Italian than a Bicicletta?”
To whip up a Bicicletta, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 ounces white wine
- 2 ounces Campari
- Club soda (for topping)
Combine the white wine and Campari in a tall glass or wine glass filled with ice, then top off the mixture with club soda. Stir gently to blend the flavors and garnish with an orange slice or peel for an extra touch of class.
So, if you’re dreaming of an Italian getaway, why not start with your kitchen? By serving up dishes like Grilled Eggplant Tarte or Blueberry Peach Focaccia alongside a refreshing Bicicletta, you can create your own little piece of Italy at home. Relish the rich flavors and enjoy a taste of la dolce vita right in your own backyard.
