Though sgroppino originated in the Veneto region, the star component of this cocktail - the cooling and sweet yet tangy lemon sorbet - immediately inspires visions of the Italian Coast. Ritual to both coastal natives and seaside tourists, stopping off for a cooling gelato or sorbet is a perfect way to escape the heat of the Italian summer. To evidence this claim, look no further than the plethora of small, family-run gelaterias that line the streets of coastal havens like Portofino, on the coast of Liguria. Our favourite of the bunch is Gepi Gelateria, with its heavy cast iron seating, sweet cobblestoned courtyard, and a seemingly endless array of colourful frozen treats. Here, the refreshing and tart lemon sorbet is a regular fixture behind the glass display case.
Typically served as a palate cleanser during meals enjoyed by 15th-century aristocrats, nowadays the sgroppino is more commonly enjoyed as a cocktail on a particularly sunny day. The sweet taste and slightly thicker consistency of the sgroppino makes for an excellent way to round out a meal, especially those enjoyed al fresco in the heat. It’s a little bit decadent, just like Portofino itself.
Sgroppino Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 scoop lemon sorbet, left to soften
- 25ml chilled vodka
- 50ml prosecco
- Mint leaves, to garnish
Method
- In a tall mixing glass, add a spoonful of lemon sorbet, before topping with prosecco.
- Stir the mixture gently, until the sorbet is melted and well combined with the prosecco.
- Add a shot of chilled vodka, and stir until thoroughly combined.
- Transfer to a champagne flute or saucer, and garnish with a mint leaf or two. Salute!
What better way to complete this vicarious trip to the Liguria, than with a delicious plate of pasta, served with Ligurian pesto? For more ways to bring the coastal haven to your home this summer, be sure to stop by our ‘Visit Liguria’ page here, and order from our limited edition Ligurian menu, available from the 13th - 19th July.
Will you be joining us on our trip to Liguria? Be sure to share your holiday-at-home snaps on social media using #PastaEvangelists #ItalyatHome.
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