Virgin Bloody Mary Cocktail Recipe

A Virgin Bloody Mary is a great choice when I want a bold, flavorful drink without alcohol. This easy recipe lets me enjoy all the classic taste and spice of a Bloody Mary in a safe, family-friendly way.

With just a few fresh ingredients and simple steps, I can mix up a delicious drink that everyone can enjoy.

I like to make this cocktail for brunch, parties, or honestly just whenever I want something different to drink. The mix of tomato juice, spices, and fresh garnishes adds a nice touch to any meal.

Virgin Bloody Mary Cocktail Recipe

Virgin Bloody Mary Cocktail Recipe
I love making a Virgin Bloody Mary when I want something savory and refreshing without alcohol. This drink is full of rich tomato flavor, colorful garnishes, and a bit of spice.
John
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Serving Size 1

Equipment

  • Tall glass: I use a highball glass since it holds all the ingredients and ice.
  • Mixing spoon: This helps me blend the flavors evenly.
  • Measuring jigger or small measuring cup: For precise liquid amounts.
  • Citrus juicer (optional): Handy if I use fresh lemon juice.
  • Knife and cutting board: Essential for slicing lemons, limes, and garnishes.
  • Small plate or saucer: I use this to rim the glass with salt or celery salt.
  • Straw or stirrer: To mix the drink before serving.
  • Ice cube tray: Fresh ice keeps the drink nicely chilled.

Ingredients

  • 6 oz 180 ml tomato juice
  • 1/2 oz 15 ml fresh lemon juice
  • 2-3 dashes hot sauce like Tabasco
  • 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce check for vegetarian if needed
  • 1/8 tsp celery salt plus extra for glass rim
  • 1/8 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/8 tsp smoked paprika optional
  • Ice cubes

Instructions

  • Rub a lemon or lime wedge around the rim of the glass.
  • Dip the glass rim in celery salt or plain salt to coat.
  • Fill the glass with fresh ice cubes.
  • Pour in the tomato juice and fresh lemon juice.
  • Add hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, celery salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
  • Use the mixing spoon to stir all ingredients very well.
  • Taste and adjust the lemon juice, hot sauce, or seasonings as desired.
  • Garnish with a celery stalk, olives, lemon or lime wedge, and optional pickle spear.
  • Add a straw or stirrer if you like.

Notes

I find using fresh tomato juice gives the best flavor and texture, but canned works if that’s easier. The seasoning in a Virgin Bloody Mary can be customized, so some might prefer it milder, while others want more spice or tang.
Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce is available if I’m making drinks for someone who avoids anchovies. The garnishes are fun and add extra flavor, but I sometimes skip them if I need something quick.
Stirring well is important because it makes sure every sip is balanced. For a chilled drink, I use plenty of ice or even chill the glass before I start.

Must Have Ingredients

Tasting Notes

When I take a sip of this Virgin Bloody Mary, I first notice the bright tomato flavor. It tastes fresh and tangy.

The lemon juice adds a gentle tartness that makes the drink crisp. The seasonings make each sip interesting.

Celery salt and ground black pepper stand out right away. I also taste a little heat from the hot sauce, but it is not too strong.

The Worcestershire sauce adds a little depth and a savory note. Here’s a breakdown of the key flavors I notice:

As I finish the drink, the aftertaste is clean. I sometimes notice a hint of celery if I use a fresh celery stalk as a garnish.

Substitute

Sometimes I need to make changes to my Virgin Bloody Mary. Maybe I’m missing an ingredient, or just in the mood to mix things up a bit.

When I substitute, I’m always thinking about taste and texture. Here are some swaps I actually like:

  • Tomato Juice: I’ll grab V8 juice, carrot juice, or even combine the two for something a bit different.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: If I’m out, soy sauce or coconut aminos bring a similar salty, savory vibe.
  • Hot Sauce: No hot sauce? A dash of cayenne pepper or a little chili powder does the trick.
  • Lemon Juice: Sometimes I’ll use lime juice, or just toss in a splash of vinegar.
  • Celery Salt: Regular salt with a pinch of celery seed works surprisingly well.

Equipment

  • Measuring spoons
  • Stirring stick
  • Glass

Ingredients

  • Substitute juice (V8, carrot, or other)
  • Alternative sauces (soy sauce, coconut aminos)
  • Chili powder or cayenne pepper
  • Lime juice or vinegar
  • Salt and celery seed mix

Instructions

  • Measure and add the substitute juice to your glass.
  • Stir in the sauce, spicy ingredient, and acid (like lime juice).
  • Add salt and celery seed, then stir well.
  • Taste and adjust if needed.

Hey there, I’m John Watson—a guy who’s spent over 20 years proving that a good drink can fix just about anything (well, almost anything). Whether it’s cocktails that wow or mocktails that mock boredom, I’m all about crafting sips with stories. Founder of ThirstyTales and full-time drink nerd, I’m here to help you shake things up, one glass at a time. Let’s mix, laugh, and maybe spill a little—cheers to the adventure!

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