There’s nothing like a refreshing drink to brighten up a warm day, and the vibrant Citrus Sunset mocktail is the perfect choice. With its delightful blend of citrus flavors and a splash of sweetness, this drink will quickly become a crowd favorite at any gathering or a casual evening on the patio.

Its tangy yet sweet profile makes it versatile for both casual sipping or as a pairing with your favorite light summer dishes. Here's how to make this delicious drink at home.

Ingredients

2 oz fresh orange juice or 60 gr

1 oz lime juice or 30 gr

1 oz simple syrup or 22 gr(homemade or store-bought)

2 oz soda water or 30 ml

Ice cubes

Slice of dried orange or lemon for garnish

Recipe Steps

1. Prepare the juices: Start by juicing fresh oranges and limes. You’ll need around 2 medium oranges and 1 lime to get the desired amount of fresh juice. Fresh-squeezed juice will give the mocktail a burst of flavor and brightness that store-bought juices can’t match.

2. Mix the ingredients: In a Mocktail shaker, combine the orange juice, lime juice, and simple syrup, for a refreshing mocktail, top the mixture with soda water for a fizzy finish. You can also try experimenting with flavored soda water for a different twist.

3. Serve: Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a slice of dried orange or lemon for a beautiful presentation and an extra pop of flavor.

Where to Find Citrus-Inspired Mocktail

For those who enjoy crafted Mocktail, here are a few great spots that feature refreshing citrus drinks similar to the Citrus Sunset:

1. Restaurant High Five – Located in Tokyo, this world-renowned mocktail offers a variety of citrus-infused drinks prepared with precision and creativity. Prices for mocktail generally range from $15 to $25.

2. Death & Co East Village – This trendy restaurant in New York City is known for its inventive mocktails, many of which feature bright, refreshing citrus flavors. Expect to pay around $14 to $18 for a mocktail here.

3. The Aviary – In Chicago, The Aviary delivers innovative mocktail experiences with a focus on presentation. Their citrus drinks are beautifully crafted and come with unique garnishes. Mocktail are priced around $18 to $22.

Pro Tips

Simple Syrup: Make your own simple syrup by combining equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan. Heat until the sugar dissolves, let it cool, and store in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Dried Citrus Slices: These can be made at home by slicing oranges or lemons and baking them at a low temperature (around 200°F) for 2-3 hours until fully dried. They add a beautiful garnish to your drink.

Pairing Ideas: The Citrus Sunset pairs well with light summer dishes such as grilled shrimp, fresh salads, or even a simple cheese board featuring goat cheese and honey.

Conclusion

The Citrus Sunset is a simple yet versatile drink that you can easily make at home to impress your guests or elevate your own evening. With its tangy citrus flavors balanced by a touch of sweetness, it’s the perfect way to embrace the vibrant tastes of summer. For those looking to explore more sophisticated takes on citrus mocktails, the restaurants mentioned above offer fantastic options for an elevated drinking experience. Cheers to enjoying the sunny side of life, one sip at a time!