Have you ever sipped something that instantly transported you to a sun-drenched garden? That’s exactly what happens with the Nasturtium Tangerine Spritz. This isn’t just another pretty cocktail—it’s a sensory adventure that combines the peppery kick of edible flowers with the bright citrus notes of tangerine, all lightened with the perfect effervescent finish.
Whether you’re looking to impress at your next gathering or simply elevate your personal happy hour, this botanical-inspired spritz delivers both stunning visuals and complex flavors in every glass.
Why This Recipe is Awesome
What sets the Nasturtium Tangerine Spritz apart is its perfect balance of sophistication and accessibility. Unlike many craft cocktails that require obscure ingredients or complicated techniques, this spritz uses the natural beauty and flavor of nasturtium flowers—which may be growing right in your garden or available at local farmers’ markets. The peppery, slightly spicy notes of nasturtiums create an unexpected counterpoint to sweet tangerine, making this drink far more intriguing than your standard citrus cocktail.
The vibrant orange and red hues make it Instagram-worthy without any artificial colorings, and the drink itself is incredibly versatile—it works as well for brunch gatherings as it does for sunset cocktail hours. As someone who’s experimented with edible flowers in cocktails for years, I can confidently say this particular combination hits that sweet spot of being impressive enough for a special occasion while remaining simple enough to mix up on a whim.
Equipment needed: Cocktail shaker, muddler, fine strainer, highball or wine glasses
Nasturtium Tangerine Spritz
Ingredients
- 12-15 fresh nasturtium flowers plus extra for garnish (look for vibrant colors without blemishes)
- 4 oz freshly squeezed tangerine juice about 2-3 tangerines
- 2 oz white vermouth Dolin Blanc recommended
- 1 oz elderflower liqueur St. Germain or similar
- 4 oz prosecco or sparkling wine
- 2 oz soda water
- Ice cubes
- Tangerine slices for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the nasturtium infusion by gently muddling 10-12 nasturtium flowers in the bottom of a cocktail shaker, pressing just enough to release their oils without completely crushing them. The goal is to extract flavor, not pulverize the delicate petals.
- Add the tangerine juice, vermouth, and elderflower liqueur to the shaker with the muddled flowers. Fill the shaker halfway with ice cubes.
- Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty. This not only chills the mixture perfectly but also helps incorporate the nasturtium’s subtle peppery notes throughout the cocktail.
- Double-strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into two ice-filled highball or wine glasses, dividing it evenly. The fine straining ensures no flower fragments end up in your finished drink.
- Top each glass with equal parts prosecco and soda water (about 2 oz prosecco and 1 oz soda water per glass), pouring slowly down the side of the glass to preserve the bubbles.
- Garnish each drink with a nasturtium flower and tangerine slice, placing them gently on top of the cocktail or on the rim of the glass for visual impact.
Notes
- Nasturtium flowers have a natural peppery flavor similar to arugula or watercress—taste one before mixing to understand the intensity you’re working with.
- For a non-alcoholic version, replace the vermouth with white grape juice, the elderflower liqueur with elderflower syrup, and the prosecco with a quality sparkling water.
- If using nasturtiums from your garden, harvest them in the morning when their flavors are most vibrant, and rinse them gently before use.
- The cocktail base (before adding prosecco and soda) can be prepared a few hours ahead and refrigerated, making it perfect for entertaining.
Calories & Nutritional Info
- Calories per serving: Approximately 165 calories per cocktail
- Carbohydrates: 18g (primarily from fruit juice and liqueurs)
- Alcohol content: Approximately 14% by volume
- This cocktail is naturally gluten-free but contains alcohol
- Nasturtiums contain vitamin C and antioxidants, adding a nutritional bonus to this cocktail
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-muddling the flowers – This can release bitter compounds and turn your drink muddy. Gentle pressure is all you need.
- Using bottled tangerine juice – The fresh-squeezed version provides significantly brighter flavor and aroma that’s essential to this cocktail.
- Adding too much soda water – This can dilute the delicate nasturtium flavor; stick to the recommended proportions for balanced flavor.
- Forgetting to strain properly – Flower fragments can create an unpleasant texture; always use a fine strainer.
- Using chilled prosecco – While counterintuitive, room temperature prosecco actually maintains better bubbles when mixed into cocktails.
Alternatives & Substitutions
- No nasturtiums? Try using another edible flower like pansies (milder flavor) or a few basil leaves with a tiny pinch of black pepper to mimic the nasturtium’s peppery profile.
- Tangerine substitutes: Blood orange, cara cara orange, or mandarin juice work beautifully, each bringing a slightly different citrus note.
- Vermouth alternatives: Lillet Blanc or Cocchi Americano provide similar botanical complexity if white vermouth isn’t available.
- For a stronger cocktail: Add 1 oz of gin or vodka to the shaker before straining.
- For a sweeter version: Add ½ oz of simple syrup or honey syrup to the shaker.
FAQs
Are nasturtium flowers really edible?
Yes, nasturtiums are completely edible—both flowers and leaves! They’ve been used in culinary applications for centuries and offer a peppery flavor similar to watercress. Just ensure they haven’t been treated with pesticides if sourcing from a garden center.
How can I find nasturtium flowers if I don’t grow them?
Look for nasturtiums at farmers’ markets, specialty grocery stores with good produce sections, or shops that sell microgreens and edible flowers. Many upscale restaurants source them, so asking a chef or local restaurant supplier can help too.
Can I make this drink ahead of time for a party?
You can prepare the base mixture (nasturtium-infused juice, vermouth, and elderflower liqueur) up to 24 hours ahead and keep refrigerated. Just add the prosecco and soda water right before serving to maintain effervescence.
What food pairs well with a Nasturtium Tangerine Spritz?
This cocktail pairs beautifully with light appetizers like goat cheese crostini, seafood dishes, spring salads, or anything with bright, fresh flavors. The peppery nasturtium complements creamy cheeses particularly well.
Is there a way to preserve nasturtium flowers for later use?
You can preserve nasturtiums by freezing them in ice cubes (perfect for this spritz!) or by making nasturtium-infused simple syrup that will keep for weeks in the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
The Nasturtium Tangerine Spritz isn’t just a drink—it’s an experience that brings garden-to-glass mixology into your home with surprising ease. There’s something magical about incorporating flowers into cocktails, connecting what we drink to the natural world in a vibrant, tangible way. So gather your ingredients, pick a few blossoms, and pour yourself a little liquid sunshine that’s as beautiful to look at as it is delightful to sip.
