Today, I’m particularly excited to share with you a classic with a twist: Tito’s Vodka Press. This drink is the perfect companion for a sunny afternoon lounging by the pool or a casual backyard gathering.
Table of Contents
What Is Tito’s Vodka Press?
A Tito’s Vodka Press is a cocktail made with Tito’s Handmade Vodka and club soda, typically garnished with a lime wedge. The “press” refers to the combination of two ingredients: club soda (or sparkling water) and a splash of lemon-lime soda (like Sprite or 7-Up), creating a refreshing and effervescent drink with a hint of citrus sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Tito’s Handmade Vodka: The star of the show, Tito’s is smooth and mixes well without overpowering other flavors.
- 2 oz Club Soda: Adds a light fizz to your cocktail.
- 2 oz 7-Up (or any clear lemon-lime soda): For a sweet and citrusy kick.
- A squeeze of fresh Lemon and Lime Juice For that tangy zest.
- Ice: To keep everything chilled.
- Lemon and Lime Slices: For garnish.
Instructions:
- Fill Your Glass: Start by filling a highball glass with ice cubes. This not only chills your drink but also ensures that it stays cooler for longer.
- Add Vodka: Pour 2 oz of Tito’s Handmade Vodka over the ice.
- Squeeze in Citrus: Squeeze a quarter of lime and a quarter of lemon directly into the glass. This fresh juice makes all the difference — it’s worth the extra minute!
- Pour in the Sodas: Add equal parts of club soda and 7-Up to the glass, pouring gently to preserve the carbonation.
- Stir Gently: Use a long spoon or stirrer to gently mix the ingredients to combine them without losing the fizz.
- Garnish and Serve: Lastly, garnish with a slice of lemon and a slice of lime on the rim of the glass or floating atop.
Tips:
- Chill Your Ingredients: For an extra crisp and refreshing drink, chill your vodka and sodas before use.
- Adjust to Taste: The Vodka Press’s beauty lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Feel free to adjust the ratios according to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet drink, increase the club soda and reduce the lemon-lime soda.
- Experiment with Garnishes: While lemon and lime are traditional, experiment with other citrus, like orange or a sprig of mint, for a touch of freshness.
- Use High-Quality Ice: Avoid ice that’s been lingering in your freezer and absorbing odors; fresh, clear ice is best not to alter the pure taste of your cocktail.
What To Serve With
Light Appetizers And Snacks:
- Cheese and Charcuterie Boards: A well-curated selection of cheeses and cured meats can complement the cocktail’s refreshing nature.Go for mild to medium cheeses to avoid overpowering the drink.
- Vegetable Crudité with Hummus: Fresh, raw vegetables served with a creamy hummus dip are not only healthy but also match the cocktail’s light and crisp profile.
- Bruschetta: Toasted slices of bread topped with a mixture of tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil offer a refreshing bite that pairs beautifully with the vodka press.
Seafood:
- Grilled Shrimp Kabobs: The slight char and sweetness of grilled shrimp enhance the zesty and bubbly nature of the drink.
- Oysters on the Half Shell: If you’re feeling fancy, oysters are a great choice. Their briny flavor pairs wonderfully with the crispness of the cocktail, making for a sophisticated pairing.
- Ceviche: A citrus-cured seafood dish like ceviche, with its bright flavors, nicely mirrors the lemon-lime elements in the vodka press.
Main Dishes:
- Grilled Chicken or Fish: Lightly seasoned grilled chicken or fish can be a delightful main dish. The smoky flavors from the grill and the simplicity of the meat complement the refreshing cocktail without overwhelming it.
- Pasta with Light Sauces: Choose pasta tossed in olive oil or a light tomato sauce. Heavy, creamy sauces may overpower the balance of your drink.
Salads:
- Caprese Salad: The simplicity of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic dressing echoes the straightforward and fresh appeal of your cocktail.
- Arugula Salad with Parmesan: The peppery notes of arugula paired with the salty richness of Parmesan cheese create a delightful contrast to the citrusy vodka press.
Desserts:
- Lemon Sorbet: A light, citrus-infused dessert like lemon sorbet will cleanse your palate and complement the tangy notes of your cocktail.
- Fruit Tarts: Desserts that feature fresh fruits can echo the fresh citrus flavors in the drink without being too sweet or heavy.
Health Benefits
Low-Calorie Option: When made with more soda water than lemon-lime soda, Tito’s Vodka Press can be a lower-calorie alcoholic beverage option, as soda water is calorie-free. This makes it a preferable choice for those who are mindful of their caloric intake but wish to enjoy a social drink.
Hydration: Soda Water Component: The soda water in a Tito’s Vodka Press can help contribute to hydration, although this effect can be somewhat offset by alcohol’s dehydrating nature. Opting for more soda water and less or no lemon-lime soda can maximize the hydration potential while minimizing sugar intake.
Lemon or Lime Juice Benefits: Vitamin C: Adding fresh lemon or lime juice can provide a dose of vitamin C, which is beneficial for immune support and skin health. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps in the protection against free radicals.
Digestive Health: The citrus content may aid in digestion. Citrus fruits are known for their digestive health benefits, helping break down food and easing digestion.
Gluten-Free: Safe for Gluten Sensitivities: Tito’s Vodka is made from corn, and the distillation process removes any trace of gluten, making it a safe option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
The most important takeaway is the need for moderation. Alcohol should always be consumed in moderation, respecting both its risks and rewards. Tito’s Vodka Press’s simple yet thoughtful combination of ingredients mirrors the balance we should aim to achieve in our consumption habits.
More Drink Recipes:
- Cream Soda Whiskey Recipe
- Leg Spreader Drink Recipe
- Vodka Press Recipe
- Scarlet Kiss Cocktail Recipe
- Blue Hurricane Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 oz Tito's Handmade Vodka: The star of the show, Tito's is smooth and mixes well without overpowering other flavors.
- 2 oz Club Soda: Adds a light fizz to your cocktail.
- 2 oz 7-Up (or any clear lemon-lime soda): For a sweet and citrusy kick.
- A squeeze of fresh Lemon and Lime Juice For that tangy zest.
- Ice: To keep everything chilled.
- Lemon and Lime Slices: For garnish.
Instructions
- Fill Your Glass: Start by filling a highball glass with ice cubes. This not only chills your drink but also ensures that it stays cooler for longer.
- Add Vodka: Pour 2 oz of Tito's Handmade Vodka over the ice.
- Squeeze in Citrus: Squeeze a quarter of lime and a quarter of lemon directly into the glass. This fresh juice makes all the difference — it's worth the extra minute!
- Pour in the Sodas: Add equal parts of club soda and 7-Up to the glass, pouring gently to preserve the carbonation.
- Stir Gently: Use a long spoon or stirrer to gently mix the ingredients to combine them without losing the fizz.
- Garnish and Serve: Lastly, garnish with a slice of lemon and a slice of lime on the rim of the glass or floating atop.
- Fill Your Glass: Start by filling a highball glass with ice cubes. This not only chills your drink but also ensures that it stays cooler for longer.
- Add Vodka: Pour 2 oz of Tito's Handmade Vodka over the ice.
- Squeeze in Citrus: Squeeze a quarter of lime and a quarter of lemon directly into the glass. This fresh juice makes all the difference — it's worth the extra minute!
- Pour in the Sodas: Add equal parts of club soda and 7-Up to the glass, pouring gently to preserve the carbonation.
- Stir Gently: Use a long spoon or stirrer to gently mix the ingredients to combine them without losing the fizz.
- Garnish and Serve: Lastly, garnish with a slice of lemon and a slice of lime on the rim of the glass or floating atop.
