Looking for a refreshing drink without alcohol? The Rosemary Orange Zing Mocktail combines sweet citrus flavors with herbal notes to create a delicious beverage anyone can enjoy.
This easy-to-make mocktail requires just orange juice, rosemary, honey, and sparkling water for a perfect balance of sweet and zesty flavors.
The bright orange color makes this drink visually appealing for gatherings or a simple treat at home. Fresh rosemary adds an unexpected herbal element that elevates this mocktail beyond ordinary juice.
Rosemary Orange Zing Mocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Glass pitcher (32 oz capacity)
- Cocktail shaker or mason jar with lid
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Muddler (or wooden spoon as alternative)
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Highball glasses for serving
- Ice cube tray (preferably large cubes)
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Vegetable peeler (for orange zest garnish)
Ingredients
- 2 cups freshly squeezed orange juice about 6-8 medium oranges
- 3 tablespoons fresh rosemary plus extra sprigs for garnish
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup adjust to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice about 2 lemons
- 2 cups sparkling water or club soda chilled
- Ice cubes
- Orange slices and zest for garnish
For a more intense rosemary flavor, prepare a simple syrup by simmering 1/2 cup water with the honey and rosemary for 5 minutes, then cooling before use.
Instructions
- Prepare the rosemary infusion: In a cocktail shaker or mason jar, combine 2 tablespoons of the fresh rosemary with the honey. Muddle gently for 30-45 seconds to release the oils from the herb.
- Add citrus juices: Pour in the freshly squeezed orange juice and lemon juice. Seal the shaker or jar and shake vigorously for 15 seconds to combine.
- Strain the mixture: Pour through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher to remove the rosemary pieces. Press gently with a spoon to extract all the flavors.
- Finish the mocktail: Add ice to the pitcher and top with sparkling water. Stir gently to combine without losing carbonation.
- Serve: Fill highball glasses with ice, pour the mocktail mixture, and garnish with orange slices and a sprig of fresh rosemary. For extra flair, add a small strip of orange zest.
The drink can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead (without sparkling water) and refrigerated in a sealed container.
Notes
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Tasting Notes
The Rosemary Orange Zing Mocktail offers a bright, refreshing flavor profile that balances sweet and tart notes. The drink leads with a sunny citrus taste from fresh orange juice.
Rosemary adds an aromatic, herbal quality that cuts through the sweetness. This creates a more complex drinking experience than simple fruit juices alone.
The carbonation from soda water brings a lively fizz that tickles the palate. When served properly chilled, the drink becomes even more crisp and revitalizing.
A touch of honey can round out the sharpness if the orange is particularly tart. The rosemary’s pine-like quality pairs surprisingly well with the citrus elements.
The drink’s color—a clear amber orange with floating rosemary sprigs—adds to the sensory experience. Each sip tastes slightly different as the rosemary continues to infuse the liquid.
This mocktail works well in any season but shines in spring and summer when served ice-cold. The flavor profile makes it a good match for light appetizers or grilled foods.
Substitute
If you don’t have all the ingredients for the Rosemary Orange Zing Mocktail, don’t worry! There are many simple swaps you can make.
Base Liquid Options:
- Sparkling water → Club soda or tonic water
- Orange juice → Tangerine or blood orange juice
Herb Alternatives:
- Fresh rosemary → Dried rosemary (use 1/3 the amount) or thyme
- Mint → Basil or lemon verbena
No honey? Try these sweeteners instead:
- Agave nectar
- Maple syrup
- Simple syrup
For garnish swaps, consider:
- Orange peel → Lemon or lime twist
- Fresh rosemary sprig → Mint sprig or cinnamon stick
Those watching sugar intake can use stevia or monk fruit sweetener. The mocktail will still taste great with these changes.
This recipe also makes a good stand-in for an Orange Spritz or Rosemary Gin Fizz. The flavor profile changes slightly with each substitute, so feel free to adjust amounts to suit your taste.
