The Best Homemade Negroni Recipe

Ideal for cocktail enthusiasts, discover the perfect balance of bitter and sweet in our Negroni recipe that elevates any gathering effortlessly. Dive in now!

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade Negroni recipe is perfect for anyone who loves classic cocktails with a bold, invigorating twist. You’ll enjoy its simplicity and rich, balanced flavors that make it a standout drink. First, it’s incredibly easy to make with just three ingredients, so you can whip it up in minutes. Second, the combination of bitter, sweet, and herbal notes creates a complex taste that’s both satisfying and elegant. Finally, it’s versatile—serve it on the rocks or with a twist of orange for a personalized touch.

Recipe

classic italian cocktail recipe

The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail known for its perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and herbal flavors. This simple yet sophisticated drink is made with equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, garnished with an orange peel. It’s a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts for its bold taste and easy preparation.

Ingredients:

  • 1 oz gin
  • 1 oz Campari
  • 1 oz sweet vermouth
  • Orange peel (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
  2. Add gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
  3. Stir well until chilled, about 30 seconds.
  4. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
  5. Garnish with an orange peel.

Notes:

  • For a smoother taste, stir longer to dilute slightly.
  • Adjust the ratio slightly if you prefer a stronger or sweeter profile.

Equipment:

  • Mixing glass
  • Bar spoon
  • Strainer
  • Rocks glass

Time:

  • Prep time: 2 minutes
  • Cooking time: 0 minutes

Cuisine: Italian

Serving: 1 cocktail

Nutrition

A classic Negroni is a simple yet sophisticated cocktail. While delightful, it’s best enjoyed in moderation due to its alcohol content.

Calories: 170

Carbohydrates: 9g

Sugars: 8g

Alcohol: 28g

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my Negroni with classic Italian appetizers like bruschetta or prosciutto-wrapped melon—it’s a match made in flavor heaven. A plate of sharp Parmigiano-Reggiano or creamy burrata can also elevate the experience, balancing the cocktail’s bold taste. Trust me, these combinations turn a simple drink into a full-on Italian feast!

Classic Italian Pairings

When I’m sipping on a homemade Negroni, I love pairing it with classic Italian dishes that complement its bold, bitter-sweet flavor. A plate of bruschetta with fresh tomatoes and basil works wonders—the acidity balances the drink’s richness. I also enjoy it with a simple pasta dish like spaghetti aglio e olio, where the garlic and olive oil enhance its herbal notes. For something heartier, I’ll go for a slice of margherita pizza—the cheese and tomato harmony is unbeatable. Sometimes, I’ll even pair it with cured meats like prosciutto, letting the salty flavors play off the Negroni’s bitterness. It’s pure bliss.

Perfect Cheese Selection

Because a Negroni’s bold, bitter-sweet profile can stand up to strong flavors, I’ve found that pairing it with the right cheeses takes the experience to the next level. Go for aged, sharp varieties like Parmigiano-Reggiano or Gorgonzola—their salty, nutty notes balance the drink’s bitterness. A creamy Taleggio works too, melting on your tongue alongside each sip. I love serving a mix on a board with some crusty bread, letting guests explore contrasts. Just avoid mild cheeses—they’ll disappear under the Negroni’s punch. Trust me, once you try this combo, you’ll never go back to plain crackers again.

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